NATO’s Operation Sea Guardian conducted its first focused patrol of 2025 in the Eastern Mediterranean, led by the Turkish Navy with contributions from the U.S. and Hellenic Navies, according to a press release.
Over a two-week mission, the Turkish frigate TCG Salihreis (F-246) engaged in Maritime Situational Awareness (MSA) activities, working closely with merchant and fishing vessels to ensure maritime security and reassure local mariners. Submarines and maritime patrol craft from both Turkiye and Greece supported the mission.
Captain Adil Tüfekçi emphasised the importance of collaboration during the operation:
“The contributions of all participating units were crucial to the success of the mission. In particular, the support provided by submarines and air assets to flagship TCG Salihreis was instrumental in achieving our objectives and demonstrating the power of collaborative maritime security.”
The patrol included over 100 hailings, where NATO forces established communication with vessels transiting the region. Hailing plays a vital role in enhancing maritime awareness, deterring threats, and assuring local mariners of NATO’s presence and commitment to freedom of navigation.
The task group also monitored hundreds of merchant vessels as part of NATO’s broader effort to safeguard maritime routes and detect potential criminal activities linked to terrorism.
Air support was provided by the NATO Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Force (NISRF), which integrated airborne and naval assets to provide real-time intelligence and improve operational effectiveness. Additionally, TCG Salihreis conducted a passing exercise (PASSEX) with the Italian Navy ship ITS Alpino.
Operation Sea Guardian, operating under NATO’s Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM), continues to be a vital mission in maintaining security throughout the Mediterranean, identifying maritime threats, and sharing intelligence within the Alliance. The operation highlights NATO’s ongoing commitment to stability at sea and strengthening collective maritime defence.
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