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Maritime Assistance Agency Coordinates Rescue Operation
Pakistani fishermen adrift in the Gulf of Oman near Iranian territorial waters were rescued by the Iranian Coast Guard today after receiving assistance from the New Zealand Air Force and the U.S. Navy. The stranded dhow, Al Kaseem, and its crew of three were spotted by a passing Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) P-3K maritime patrol aircraft of RNZAFâs 5 Squadron, then on a routine patrol flight over the Gulf of Oman in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). The P-3âs crew contacted the nearest coalition maritime vessel in the area, USS Higgins (DDG 76), also on routine patrol in support of OEF. After trying to reach the dhowâs crew by radio, the Higginsâs crew dispatched a security and rescue assistance team via small boat. The Higgins assistance team learned from the master of Al Kaseem that its crew of three had been adrift without food and water for three days near Iranian territorial waters. After providing Al Kaseemâs crew with enough food for five days, Higgins crew members attempted to repair the dhowâs ailing engine, but was unsuccessful.Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command / U.S. 5th Fleet then contacted the Maritime Emergency Mutual Assistance Center (MEMAC) to relay the dhowâs position and coordinated the towing operation. The Iranian Coast Guard responded to MEMACâs request for assistance and proceeded toward the Iranian port of Jask with the Al Kaseem successfully in tow and its crew safely aboard. Posted by: Chuck Simmins 2004-02-02 |
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