EU Naval Force - Somalia
Operation ATALANTA

The Republic of Korea warship, ROKS Choi Young, recently completed her second term of support to EU NAVFOR off the coast of Somalia as part of South Korea’s efforts to deter piracy and provide reassurance at sea to masters and crews of merchant vessels as they transit across the region.

During her last week of support to EU NAVFOR, crews from ROKS Choi Young and Operation Atalanta’s flagship, ESP Galicia, met at sea to exchange information, train together and build on the success of the first period of cooperation earlier this year.

After sailors from both ships ‘cross-decked’ to the other ship, they took part in training exercises on board.  Counter-piracy tactics and the importance of naval cooperation to help deter armed pirate attacks at sea were also discussed.

During the day the commanding officer of ROKS Choi Young was welcomed on board ESPS Galicia by Operation Atalanta’s force commander and ESPS Galicia’s commanding officer.  Gifts were exchanged to show the camaraderie that exists between these highly trained counter-piracy partners.