Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group Two (SNMCMG2), led by the Italian flagship ITS Stromboli and the Italian Minehunter ITS Numana, recently conducted a port visit to Algiers from August 21 to 24.
The four-day visit aimed at fostering relations and operational cohesion between NATO and Algeria, a partner nation in North Africa.
Local authorities extended a hospitable welcome to the NATO group, complete with an Algerian Coast Guard patrol boat escorting the vessels into Algiers harbour. During their stay, SNMCMG2 crew members engaged in various cultural and recreational activities organised by Algerian Navy personnel.
Commander Ettore Ronco of the Italian Navy, who leads SNMCMG2, stated, “In a so rapidly evolving world, overwhelmed by continuous changes, Algeria is for us a precious friend, partner without which it is unthinkable to guarantee maritime security in the Mediterranean Sea and stability in North Africa. Working together allows us to face situations of crisis together in a cohesive, rapid and effective manner.”
In addition to fostering relations, the visit included discussions on maritime operations and lectures on Naval Mine Warfare. The visit culminated in an official gathering for SNMCMG2 crew members and diplomats, hosted by the Algerian Navy.
Algeria has been a participant in NATO’s Mediterranean Dialogue Programme since 2000. The ongoing cooperation between NATO and Algeria aims at enhancing military dialogue, mutual understanding, and regional security.
The SNMCMG2 forms part of the Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF), which in turn is a component of the NATO Response Force (NRF). The VJTF is designed to provide rapid response capabilities, and its maritime component can be augmented with additional forces as required.
The full planning application is in to Westmorland and Furness Council for the Ramsden Dock Facility. Interesting statement in the introduction: “Following an extensive review exercise BAE Systems identified the requirement for additional facilities to the Central Yard Facility to be on stream before August 2027. There is an opportunity to significantly benefit the current boat build programme if a new Pre Paint Facility could be provided in 2025 therefore the proposal to develop Ramsden Dock Facility was initiated.” “The project sits as part of the Submersible Ship Nuclear Replacement (SSNR) investment programme. The SSNR program follows BAE’s awarding of… Read more »
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Considering the internal political situation in Algeria and relations with neighbouring Morocco – and in the light of the killing of 2 French tourists this week by Algerian border guards – this is an interesting report.
The implications of the control of the north African coast is a big deal commercial and military opportunities for trade and border control