ESPS Navarra Continues Counter-Piracy Patrols

EU Naval Force frigate, ESPS Navarra, has resumed her counter-piracy patrols in the Indian Ocean after a short visit to the port of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates.

The visit was an opportunity for the crew to resupply the ship and have some rest and recuperation after spending a number of weeks on patrol.

During her first two months with Operation Atalanta, the Spanish frigate completed a number of operational tasks. These tasks have included the protection of a World Food Programme vessel carrying aid to the Somali people, and engagements with local seafarers to provide reassurance to them about the EU’s efforts to counter piracy.

The warship has also conducted counter-piracy patrols in sea areas that have previously witnessed pirate attacks and the ship’s helicopter crew has been extremely busy acting as the ‘eyes over the horizon’ for the command.

In order to remain at sea for long periods, ESPS Navarra has carried out replenishments at sea (RAS) with re-supply tankers, including the US logistical ship USNS Laramie.

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Press Release, September 25, 2014; Image: EU NAVFOR