Germany takes over responsibility for Task Force 465

Aug 13, 2011 - 12:55
On August 13th the handover of Task Force 465 was held on board of VASCO DA GAMA in the port of Djibouti. Commodore Alberto Correira handed over the responsibility of Force Commander for the European Union Naval Force Somalia (TF 465) to Rear Admiral Thomas Jugel, German Navy.

The handover ceremony was held on the helicopter flight deck of the Portuguese frigate VASCO DA GAMA, in presence of military and civilian guests under the patronage of the Rear Admiral Christian Canova, French Navy, Deputy Commander EU NAVFOR from Northwood, England.

During his final speech, Commodore Correira highlighted the mission success. “We were able to fulfil our mission to reduce piracy in the operational area and all protected vessels of the Wold Food Programme (WFP) have safely reached their destination” he said.

In the speech of Rear Admiral Canova he emphasized the outstanding results of the past months and congratulated Commodore Correira for the achievements.  “It has been a difficult and rewarding mission”, “I guarantee you my absolute personnel support” addressing Admiral Jugel, Admiral Canova said.

On the first occasion that Germany has taken responsibility for Task Force 465, Rear Admiral Jugel spoke to both ships’ crews: “To protect humanitarian aid shipping to Somalia is a very important mission and it is good to know that it is still EU NAVFOR primary focus,” saying this words with respect for the upcoming challenging time. “As far as the contribution of this Task Force is concerned, I am sure that we will continue to give pirates and armed robbers a very hard time”.

“Let’s do our Job with enthusiasm, professionalism and mutual trust – then we will continue to be successful”. Admiral Jugel said at the end of his speech.

For the next four months, Germany will lead the Multinational Force Headquarters onboard the EUNAVFOR German Frigate FGS BAYERN.

EUNAVFOR Somalia – Operation ATALANTA’s main tasks are to escort merchant vessels carrying humanitarian aid of the World Food Program (WFP) and vessels of African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). EUNAVFOR also protects vulnerable vessels in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, deters and disrupts piracy. EUNAVFOR finally monitors fishing activity off the coast of Somalia.

 

Categories