US Submarine Sinks Iranian Warship: Implications for India

Incident Overview

On March 4, reports emerged that a US submarine had sunk the Iranian warship IRIS Dena approximately 380 kilometers away from India's coastal boundary near Kanyakumari. The Iranian vessel was en route to participate in the 'Milan 2026' exercise in India when it was attacked. This incident occurred just 70 kilometers from Sri Lanka's naval coast, prompting the Sri Lankan Navy to conduct a rescue operation for some crew members of the Iranian Navy. Following the attack, a campaign erupted on Indian social media, portraying India as both a victim and a weak player in the Indian Ocean. Critics suggested that the US had been granted permission by India to attack a friendly Iranian warship, raising questions about India's moral obligation to protect it.

A Historic Attack

This incident marks a significant event, as it is reportedly the first time since World War II that a warship from one nation has been attacked and destroyed by a submarine from another in international waters. Iran is currently engaged in an official conflict with the US and Israel, targeting American military bases throughout the Middle East. The conflict escalated following an assassination attempt on Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei by Israel and the US.

Details of the Attack

The attack took place within Sri Lanka's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Territorial waters extend 12 nautical miles from a country's coastline, while the EEZ extends up to 200 miles. Foreign warships can pass through territorial waters without interference, but military actions are prohibited in this zone. The attack occurred 40 miles from a Sri Lankan Navy post, thus not infringing on Sri Lankan territorial waters.

Is This a War in Our Neighborhood?

It's crucial to understand that this incident does not obligate India to protect the Iranian warship. The term 'Indian Ocean' encompasses a vast area, historically linked to India, but today it is governed by at least 28 nations, including several Middle Eastern countries. The Iranian warship was in the region for the Milan 2026 exercise, and the attack occurred 1200 kilometers away from Visakhapatnam, India.

Could India Have Intervened?

While India considers the Indian Ocean its strategic backyard, it is, in fact, international waters. Although it may seem concerning that the attack was not reported, it is not mandatory to disclose such information. The conflict has reached India's vicinity, but the extent of the conflict will depend on the Iranian Navy's actions. India could have potentially offered more support, but it is essential to recognize that this incident occurred amidst an ongoing full-scale war, with Iran aggressively targeting US interests and allies.

Was India Aware of the Situation?

Submarines are inherently difficult to monitor. The Indian Ocean Region's Information Fusion Centre (IFC-IOR) aids in preventing piracy, terrorism, and smuggling by tracking merchant traffic. Each ship has an identification number, but in times of conflict, warships often disable their transponders to avoid detection.