According to NATO, the recent activation exercise of Operation Sea Guardian (OSG) in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea has successfully demonstrated the deployment capabilities of maritime special forces.
This strategic exercise, managed by the Special Operations Command and Control Element (SOCCE) in Türkiye, highlighted NATO’s readiness and operational proficiency.
In this meticulously planned and executed operation, NATO’s Allied Maritime Command carried out the Flag State Consent Request process via NATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). This process, undertaken in strict adherence to international maritime law, allowed for a lawful inspection of cargo on the high seas, as per NATO’s report.
The exercise involved a team from the Turkish Maritime Special Operations Force, under the control of SOCCE in Türkiye and assigned to OSG. This team embarked on the Turkish frigate TCG GOKOVA and boarded the M/V BLUEFISH in a simulated scenario involving suspected illegal activities linked to terrorism.
NATO’s press release details that the Special Operations Force team successfully assumed control of the vessel, conducting a thorough inspection and securing any identified terrorists. The NATO Shipping Centre’s coordination with the merchant industry was pivotal in executing this exercise, providing a near-real scenario.
Rear Admiral Stefan Pauly, Commander of Surface Forces NATO, emphasised the significance of this exercise in NATO’s communication, stating, “This exercise demonstrates NATO’s readiness and resolve to tackle the most challenging operations, effectively countering a broad spectrum of threats to the maritime domain.”
Operation Sea Guardian, as described by NATO, is a collaborative maritime security operation active throughout the year. Its objectives include maintaining Maritime Situational Awareness, deterring and countering terrorism, and enhancing the capacity and interoperability among NATO allies and partners. This recent exercise affirms NATO’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Mediterranean region.
