Indian Navy Removes Unexploded Warhead From Missile Hit Crude Tanker Off Kochi

The Indian Navy has safely recovered an unexploded missile warhead from the Marshall Islands-flagged crude oil tanker MT Olympic Life after carrying out a complex explosive ordnance disposal operation.

According to the Indian Navy, the tanker was sailing from Fujairah in the UAE to Kochi when it reported an explosion in its hull off the coast of Oman on May 26, 2026.

The vessel, which had no Indian nationals on board, later reported the presence of unexploded ordnance as it continued its voyage towards Kochi.

After receiving information through the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), the Indian Navy launched a coordinated response.

The Southern Naval Command in Kochi deployed a specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to assess the situation.

The EOD team found that a projectile had penetrated the vessel’s hull, passed through multiple structural compartments and become lodged inside a fuel tank.

Given the risks associated with an unexploded missile warhead inside a fuel storage compartment, the team followed a phased approach to ensure the safety of the ship, its crew and nearby port infrastructure.

After completing the required safety procedures, the EOD specialists used advanced diagnostic methods to identify and isolate the detonation mechanism before safely removing the warhead and associated debris.

The Indian Navy said the recovered ordnance has been moved to a secure facility for safe storage and detailed examination.

The Navy said the operation was carried out over an extended period and required careful planning because of the risks involved.

It added that the mission demonstrated the service’s expertise in explosive ordnance disposal and its ability to coordinate with multiple agencies during complex maritime emergencies.

The Navy also said its response, regardless of the nationality of the crew or ownership of the vessel, shows its commitment to maritime safety and security in the region.

References: PIB, The Print