On 11 May 2016, tanker support ship, FGS Spessart, joined Operation Atalanta, as part of Germany’s contribution to the EU’s efforts to deter and disrup piracy off the coast of Somalia.
Under the command of Captain Rolf-Heinrich von Bebern, FGS Spessart is equipped to provide fuelling support to both Operation Atalanta ships and other international forces conducting counter-piracy operations in the region.
The Captain commented, “We are well-prepared for our upcoming tasks and look forward to deploying with Operation Atalanta and working with our German flagship, FGS Bayern, Spanish warship ESPS Tornado and Italian warship ITS Euro.”
Operation Atalanta warships have a large area to cover during their counter-piracy patrols; they operate both in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden. As well as working to ensure the sea is safe for seafarers, Op Atalanta crews work with regional partners, such as WFP and AMISOM, and support other EU missions in Somalia.