Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) flagship, Italian Navy’s Carlo Bergamini-class frigate ITS Carlo Margottini (F592), and Spanish Navy Álvaro de Bazán-class frigate ESPS Blas De Lezo (F103) visited Tunis from 7 to 9 May for a scheduled port visit.
The port visit was an opportunity to re-supply and for SNMG2 to work together with Tunisia to enhance interoperability between partner nations.
The Commander of the National Coastal Surveillance Service and the mayor of La Goulette, Tunisia, welcomed SNMG2 and the NATO ships with their crews to La Goulette port.
The visit furthered the cooperation process with Tunisia that started in 1995 as part of the Mediterranean Dialogue initiative.
On 10 May 10, SNMG2 departed Tunis to conduct a passing exercise with Tunisian Navy’s patrol boat PLM CARTHAGE (P503) executing a serialized schedule of training activities, which included a manoeuvring exercise and voice communication procedures exercise improving the capability of the NATO partners to operate together.
La Goulette is a strategic point for allied forces to conduct maritime assurance activities in the Mediterranean Sea.
Upon completion of the PASSEX, SNMG2 resumed its program in the Mediterranean including participation in the Italian Exercise Mare Aperto ’22.
“SNMG2 provides a strong international presence in the region demonstrating strength and cohesion among NATO allies and partners, and working together to keep peace and preserve security on the high seas,” according to NATO.