Standing NATO Maritime Group Two completes naval drills in Mediterranean Sea

Europe, News August 13, 2022 , by IRIA No Comments

Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2) completed naval drills in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea.

The SNMG2 together with the task group ships arrived at Souda Bay, Crete for deployment and resupply missions. The integrated task group ships included: the Spanish Navy frigate Almirante Juan de Borbon (F-102), U.S. guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98), Turkish Navy frigate TCG Kemalreis (F-247), and Hellenic Navy frigate HS Kountouriotis (F462).

According to the NATO Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) statement, “the task group performed unique and tactical events such as live-fire gunnery exercises, electronic warfare exercises, air defense exercises, and communication exercises. While operating together provides for increased interoperability and improved communications during dynamic exercises, it also directly supports the purpose and principles outlined in the 2022 NATO Strategic Concept.”

NATO Strategic Concept outlines the security environment facing the Alliance, reaffirms NATO’s values, and describes NATO’s key purpose of ensuring the Alliance’s collective defense. It also sets out NATO’s three core tasks of deterrence and defense; crisis prevention and management; and cooperative security.

ESPS Alvaro de Bazan, flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, carries out replenishment at sea with FGS Berlin in the Mediterranean Sea — *^{Alvaro de Bazan, flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, carries out replenishment at sea with FGS Berlin in the Mediterranean Sea on 9 August 2020.}*

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Scott Sciretta and Commander of the NATO Maritime Group Two on said, “Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2) is dedicated to practicing the core tasks outlined in the Strategic Concept.”

“By operating as one team in the Mediterranean, we prioritize focusing on continuous improvement. The Alliance is stronger together and we will continue to demonstrate how our combat-credible, forward-deployed fleet is the most potent, flexible, and versatile instrument of military power. Just as we succeed when we operate together at sea, port visits also are key opportunities to continue to build those vital relationships between Allies and Partners,” Sciretta added.

The port visit provides an opportunity for the Group to refuel and resupply. Sailors will also have the opportunity to participate in recreational activities and engage with local communities across the island.