Spanish Navy’s offshore patrol vessel BAM Relampago took members of the Somaliland Coast Guard on board for maritime training off the coast of Somaliland on September 3.

The training consisted of radar and search and rescue (SAR) drills including helicopter evolutions. UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) assisted the sailors in preparing the radar training.

During the day, Admiral Adbi Hersi from the Somaliland Coastguard was hosted on board ESPS Relampago by the ship’s commanding officer.

The radar training in Berbera Bay was a precursor to an engagement the following day on board EUNAVFOR flagship HNLMS Tromp which hosted maritime security and Somaliland representatives for a joint maritime security seminar.

Collaboration and training between operation Atalanta and regional naval forces is an important role for operation Atalanta warships. It is part of the EU’s efforts to help strengthen regional maritime security and development.