Operation Atalanta’s Spanish warship, ESPS Santa Maria, has been meeting Somali fishermen in the Gulf of Aden during routine patrols to protect the seas off Somalia from the threat of piracy.

A small team from the Spanish ship were invited aboard the fishing vessel to meet the crew and see the fishing techniques the local fishermen employ.  The EU Naval Force sailors explained the presence of the warships in the seas off Somalia and their role in deterring and disrupting piracy to ensure the seas remain safe for all users.

Meetings at sea such as this are a vital part of Op Atalanta’s work and allow for a better understanding of how local people use the maritime environment and how EU warships can best support them whilst they go about their daily business.