The NATO Operation Sea Guardian (OSG) contingent has successfully executed its sixth meticulously targeted maritime patrol within the current year, covering the expansive waters of the Western Mediterranean and the strategic expanse near the Strait of Gibraltar. This operational endeavor underscores the alliance’s commitment to regional security and surveillance, fostering stability in these crucial maritime domains.
The sixth targeted operation (FOCOPS 23-6) involved monitoring maritime traffic along key sea lanes, collecting pertinent data, and fostering collaboration with NATO partners, namely Morocco and Algeria.
Throughout the year 2023, naval vessels, submarines, and aircraft from 8 NATO member countries provided direct support to Operation Sea Guardian, accumulating a combined total of 379 days at sea and conducting 86 aerial sorties.
Embarked aboard the Spanish frigate ESPS Santa Maria, a NATO staff led by Commander Francisco Garcia Flores (ESP N) spent 16 days at sea, visiting 7 vessels, and conducting investigations on a total of 1,146 different ships.