Oman’s commitment to maritime security has been clearly demonstrated alongside that of EU NAVFOR during a recent engagement at sea. Commander Andrea Quondamatteo Italian Navy, Commanding Officer ITS Federico Martinengo said recently: "Exercises and training means readiness, keeping standards in the field of maritime security at a very high level."
On 1st December EU NAVFOR Operation Atalanta was represented by ITS Federico Martinengo alongside the Royal Navy of Oman’s Al Shamikh Q40 (Project Class KHAREEF) as the two warships conducted a Passing Exercise (PASSEX). The event closely followed the same ship’s port visit to Salalah, Oman where the event was planned. The PASSEX activity consisted of the exchange of personnel; communications by means of flashing lights; and helicopter operations. Navies conduct such activities to help understand each other’s capabilities and to ensure they are at high readiness should they be needed to work together on operations.
EU NAVFOR has continued to be at such a high readiness since December 2008 when Operation Atalanta was launched to commence its counter-piracy mission in the region.
On 1st December EU NAVFOR Operation Atalanta was represented by ITS Federico Martinengo alongside the Royal Navy of Oman’s Al Shamikh Q40 (Project Class KHAREEF) as the two warships conducted a Passing Exercise (PASSEX). The event closely followed the same ship’s port visit to Salalah, Oman where the event was planned. The PASSEX activity consisted of the exchange of personnel; communications by means of flashing lights; and helicopter operations. Navies conduct such activities to help understand each other’s capabilities and to ensure they are at high readiness should they be needed to work together on operations.
EU NAVFOR has continued to be at such a high readiness since December 2008 when Operation Atalanta was launched to commence its counter-piracy mission in the region.