Cooperation between EU NAVFOR and regional partners is vital for the maintenance of maritime security and free flow of international trade around the Horn of Africa.

After departing the port of Muscat following her visit to the Sultanate of Oman, EU NAVFOR flagship ITS Carlo Margottini carried out naval manoeuvres with the Royal Navy of Oman warship, RNOV Al Naasir. Sailing in close proximity to each other requires expert seamanship and during this time Margottini and Al Nassir both displayed these skills with ceremonial salutes to each other.

This interaction at sea was a fantastic opportunity to enhance the already strong relationship and mutual understanding between the EU NAVFOR and Royal Navy of Oman, and a way to strengthen partnership in promoting peace and maritime stability.

ITS Carlo Margottini is currently deployed in the Gulf of Aden, and has a complement of 131 personnel who have been conducting counter-piracy operations and working closely with regional partners for the last 3 months in the high-risk area.