Standing NATO Maritime Group TWO makes a port visit to Spain

17 JUL 2015

PALMA DE MALLORCA, Spain – The flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group TWO (SNMG 2), the German frigate FGS HAMBURG, entered the port of Palma de Mallorca on Wednesday, 15 July 2015, 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 25 June in Kiel, Germany, SNMG 2 has been led by Rear Admiral Jörg Klein. On Wednesday, 8 July the flagship left her home port of Wilhelmshaven for a challenging deployment in the Mediterranean.

Canada’s HMCS Winnipeg joins Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 in Palma de Mallorca – Photo courtesy of HQ MARCOM Public Affairs Office

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 programme.

“The major challenge will be to build mutual understanding between the crews of our Group,” said Rear Admiral Klein, “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. Fostering and strengthening of personnel and professional relationships between the Sailors of NATO and non-NATO countries is essential as well.

“With flying NATO colours aboard the frigate HAMBURG, SNMG 2 seamlessly continues the task to establish a visible presence of the Alliance on the seas,” said Vice Admiral Bruno Paulmier, Deputy Commander of Allied Maritime Command, while addressing the Sailors during the change of command ceremony in Kiel.

Source: NATO

By

L. J. De Rothschild

Senior Editor

NATO Section

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