EUNAVFOR using UAV to track pirates
The commander of EUNAVFOR says he expects his counter-piracy force operating off the Horn of Africa to be strengthened and also rates the usefulness of UAVs in discovering where pirates are operating.
EUNAVFOR Operation Commander Maj Gen Martin Smith said he expects his task group to be increased from three to five ships, a figure he described as ‘optimum’.
The five ships will also be supported by two maritime patrol craft and a Predator UAV provided by the Italian Air Force.
At the peak of pirate attacks off Somalia post-2011, the EUNAVFOR fleet comprised up to 15 ships.
Currently, the
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?
Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
-
Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.
-
Indonesian Navy looks for variety and industrial partnerships to add capability
Indonesia is looking to introduce a variety of vessels to meet particular requirements both operational and geographic and is building ties with Turkey as part of the effort.