On Friday 6 February, during her visit to Port Victoria, EU Naval Force warship, ESPS Rayo, conducted Local Maritime Training. This was in support of the EU maritime capacity building mission and in coordination with EUCAP Nestor.

After receiving a safety brief onboard the ship’s sea boat, trainees from the Seychelles Marine Police Patrol Unit (MPPU) received comprehensive instruction in the procedures required to lower and hoist the boat. When the sea boat had been launched, the boarding team from ESPS Rayo shared their expertise of assault procedures and techniques. Once on board again, the maritime training session ended with core rope work.

While the MPPU guests received maritime training, their colleagues from the Seychelles Coast Guard were given a tour of the Spanish warship and exchanged opinions on counter-piracy and maritime security.

The EU Naval Force comprehensive approach proved highly effective and served to enhance the mutual trust and understanding between the maritime forces.