Standing NATO Maritime Group One Takes Command of Nato Counter-Terrorism Task Force

Commander of Standing NATO Maritime Group ONE (SNMG1) Commodore Nils Andreas Stensønes took command of NATO’s counter terrorism task force supporting Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR on Wednesday, 23 April 2014.

SNMG1 presently consists of the flagship HNoMS THOR HEYERDAHL and FGS MAGDEBURG, and receives direct or associated support from a number of vessels, including submarines, surface units and aircraft provided by Allied nations. Currently,the Spanish Navy oiler ESPS PATINO is providing direct support to the group’s operations.

The Group was ordered to deploy to the Mediterranean as a part of the maritime portion of actions taken by the North Atlantic Council and SACEUR General Philip Breedlove in an effort to assure Allies, enhance maritime security, and demonstrate NATO’s solidarity and readiness.

During its deployment to the Mediterranean, the Group will support NATO’s counter-terrorism Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR. Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR is NATO’s sole current Article V operation, initiated in October 2001 to actively demonstrate NATO’s resolve and solidarity against terrorism. The operation is part of NATO’s multi-faceted response to current terrorist threats. Its mission is to conduct maritime operations in the Mediterranean Sea and Straits of Gibraltar to actively demonstrate NATO’s resolve to help deter, defend, disrupt and protect against terrorism.

“I am happy to take this assignment and to be able to contribute to maritime security in this important region,” said Commodore Nils Andreas Stensønes. “Maritime security is fundamental to a well-functioning modern society.”

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Press Release, May 1, 2014; Image: NATO