Whilst on a visit to Djibouti, Operation Atalanta’s Force Commander recently visited the Djiboutian Navy’s Operations Centre.

Royal Netherlands Navy Commodore Luyckx received a briefing on the capabilities of the Djiboutian Navy by its Head of Operations and was impressed with the professionalism of the staff and the set up of the Centre which aims to protect maritime security in the waters off the Djiboutian coast.

Cooperating with regional maritime forces where possible is important engagement for Operation Atalanta. Keeping the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden free from piracy cannot be achieved by the EU Naval Force in isolation and the Djiboutian Navy is a key player in ensuring seafarers in the region are kept safe.