Naval Special Operations Team begins deployment in Djibouti as part of Operation “Atalanta”

•  For two weeks, and prior to embarking on frigate Canarias, Spanish personnel will provide military assistance to the Djiboutian Coast Guard

The Naval Special Operations Maritime Task Unit (SOMTU), integrated into the EU Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation “Atalanta”, has commenced its deployment to Djibouti with a dual objective: to provide military assistance to the local coast guard unit and to enhance interoperability across the regional special operations community.

During this initial phase, SOMTU has focused its efforts on enhancing the operational capabilities of the Djiboutian Coast Guard. Together, they have conducted tactical combat casualty care drills, focused on the treatment of massive hemorrhage and the initial care of wounded personnel using their own resources; live-fire training; and boarding exercises using small boats.

The unit has also cooperated with the Pararescue Jumpers of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa, the teams responsible for personnel recovery and the evacuation of isolated personnel in high-risk areas. In addition, it has carried out intensive training with French special operations forces, conducting joint medical evacuation drills and parachute jumps along the Djiboutian coast, thereby reinforcing interoperability within a multinational environment.

Following this initial land-based phase, SOMTU will embark on 5 March aboard frigate Canarias, which joined Operation “Atalanta” on 20 February. On board the Spanish vessel, the Spanish marines will provide essential reinforcement in responding to piracy-related incidents, which continue to occur in this region of enormous strategic importance for security, fisheries and global trade.