Ak-Carl Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On October 18, 2015, a dramatic rescue unfolded in the Gulf of Aden when the bulk carrier 'AK Carl', en route from Juhail to Suez, responded to a distress signal from the LPG tanker 'Falcon' (IMO: 9014432). This incident occurred approximately 130 miles southeast of Aden, near the Yemeni coast, after an explosion and subsequent fire broke out onboard the 'Falcon', the cause of which remains undetermined. The 'Meda' (IMO: 8818219), which was also traveling in the area, joined 'AK Carl' in the urgent rescue effort. In coordination with EUNAVFOR Aspides, a search and rescue (SAR) operation was initiated to assist the 26 crew members of the 'Falcon', which included one Ukrainian and 25 Indian nationals who had abandoned ship due to the fire. The Greek frigate HS 'Spetsai' also played a critical role, dispatching an aerial asset along with support from a French air unit from France’s Indian Ocean command. The 'Meda' successfully rescued one Ukrainian and 23 Indian crew members, while the remaining crew were assisted by the 'AK Carl'. After the operation, the 'Spetsai' escorted the rescued seafarers to Djibouti, where they were safely handed over to the Djiboutian Coast Guard. Following the completion of the SAR mission, the 'AK Carl' resumed its journey, with an expected arrival in Suez by October 24. For further details and visuals of the operation, visit: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eunavfor-aspides/mv-falcon-third-update-october-19th-2025_en.