ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy has successfully carried out a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operation at extended ranges in the Indian Ocean, rescuing a Sri Lankan national who required urgent medical attention onboard an Indonesian-flagged merchant vessel, MV Grey Palm, officials said on Saturday.

According to a press release issued by the Directorate General Public Relations (Pakistan Navy), the operation was conducted by Pakistan Navy ships PNS Tabuk and PNS Moawin after a formal request was received from the Sri Lankan Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC).

The vessel was located around 800 nautical miles (approximately 1,500 kilometres) off Pakistan’s coast when the emergency was reported.

Officials said the Pakistan Navy responded as a first responder, evacuated the critically ill crew member along with an attendant, and shifted them to a Pakistan Navy ship, where the patient was provided immediate medical treatment.

The Sri Lankan authorities and the family of the rescued crew member expressed gratitude to Pakistan for the timely response and support, the statement added.

The Pakistan Navy said the successful MEDEVAC reflects its operational readiness and its continued commitment to ensuring the safety of life at sea, irrespective of nationality.