SNMG 2 Makes Final Preps for Deployment

Today, the flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group TWO (SNMG 2), the German frigate FGS HAMBURG, entered the port of Palma de Mallorca for a routine port visit, during which additional ships from other nations will join the Group and make final preparations for deployment.

Since the change of command ceremony on June 25 in Kiel, Germany, SNMG 2 has been led by Rear Admiral Jörg Klein. On Wednesday, July 8, 2015, the flagship left her home port of Wilhelmshaven for a challenging deployment in the Mediterranean.

During the visit to Palma de Mallorca, FGS HAMBURG will be joined by the Canadian frigate HMCS WINNIPEG, the Spanish frigate ESPS SANTA MARIA and the Spanish support ship ESPS CANTABRIA. Before sailing together for the first time, the crews expect a diversified and demanding port program.

Rear Admiral Klein said:

The major challenge will be to build mutual understanding between the crews of our Group, and to integrate excellent warships from various nations into a team.

As part of the Standing Naval Forces of NATO, SNMG 2 will support NATO’s counter-terrorism Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR, as well as participating in several exercises and port visits in the Mediterranean.

The ships of SNMG 2, HAMBURG, WINNIPEG, SANTA MARIA and CANTABRIA, will be open for visitors on July 18th and 19th.

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Image: US Navy