Partnerships and cooperation are vital for the success of maritime security operations. Working alongside our Japanese partners increases capability and reach as we continue to deter, disrupt and repress piracy.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s JS Ikazuchi and EU NAVFOR ship ESPS Relampago conducted a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) near Salalah on the 20^th December 2018. The Commanding Officers of both ships, Lieutenant Commander Fernando Maria Zumalacarregui Alario and Captain Ryoko Azuma met to discuss prominent issues in the maritime security domain.

Japan is a dedicated contributor to counter-piracy and these discussions help to increase interoperability between the two ships. They also provide the warships a valuable opportunity to test their communication and coordination linkages, and strengthen the mutual understanding of the ships’ capabilities, practices, and procedures.

EU NAVFOR continues to work closely with CMF (Combined Maritime Forces) across the Gulf of Aden. Operation Atalanta is more than just ships and encouraging cooperation and coordination amongst our partners remains crucial in using all assets at our disposal.