Whilst in the Gulf of Aden recently, Operation Atalanta’s Spanish warship ESPS Santa Maria participated in an exercise with units from the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), JS Yuudachi and JS Yuugiri.
The three warships sailed together in close formation and their Seahawk helicopters took the opportunity to practise cross-deck landings. In order to maintain safety, close coordination was required at all times and liaison officers exchanged positions to ensure all parties knew the procedures.
JS Yuudachi and JS Yuugiri are deployed with Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, an international force which aims to disrupt piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Aden. Like Op Atalanta, CTF151 works closely with regional partners to ensure seas are kept safe and Somali piracy is deterred.