U.S. Navy saves stranded Iranian mariners in Gulf of Oman

Navy vessel rescued two Iranian mariners Nov. 27 from a fishing vessel after it was adrift for eight days in the Gulf of Oman.

As informed, dry cargo ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) responded after the Combined Maritime Forces, and international maritime coalition headquartered in Bahrain, received a distress call from the stranded mariners at 10 a.m. local time.

Charles Drew arrived on scene six hours later and provided food, water and medical care.

“This is what we are trained and ready to do,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “As professional mariners, we have a responsibility to help people in need at sea.”

What is more, Charles Drew safely transported the mariners to an Omani coast guard vessel sailing near Muscat, Oman. The mariners were in good health and spirits at the time of the transfer.

“We appreciate the government of Oman for its assistance and support in helping us return the mariners home,” said Cooper.

Combined Maritime Forces consists of 34 nations and is the largest naval partnership in the world. Its naval vessels and personnel operate in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf promoting security and stability.