Between Sunday 2 and Saturday 8 February, Ukrainian Navy frigate, Hetman Sagaidachniy, which is currently operating with the EU Naval Force off the coast of Somalia, visited the port of Salalah in Oman.
Having spent a number of weeks at sea, the visit was an opportunity to refuel the ship and to re-stock supplies on board. It was also an opportunity for the ship’s crew to enjoy some sports activities and to explore the local culture.
Speaking about the visit, the Commander of Ukrainian Contingent, Rear Admiral Andrii Tarasov stated “The port visit was a good opportunity to not only replenish the ship, but to also allow my sailors to celebrate national events and birthdays in accordance with Ukrainian customs and traditions. This helps to maintain a high level of morale on board.”
Commanding Officer of UKRS Hetman Sagaidachniy, Commander Roman Piatnitskiy: “As well as carrying out required ship’s maintenance, the crew were able to relax after conducting their busy standing watches at sea.”
On completion of the port visit, Hetman Sagaidachniy returned to her counter piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden.
[mappress] Press Release, February 17, 2014; Image: EU Navfor