CTF 152 leads maritime security operations (MSO) in the central and southern Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.
Upon departing Mina Zayed, Etna and Foscari conducted a Visit, Board, Search and Seizure exercise along with local maritime security forces. The Italian Ambassador to the U.A.E., Paolo Dionisi, observed the exercise from aboard Foscari, along with visiting officers from the U.A.E. and several other nations.
During the exercise, Etna simulated a merchant vessel suspected of being involved in illicit trafficking related to international terrorism. A security team of Italian Marines from Foscari first fast-roped aboard Etna from Foscari’s helicopter to secure and prepare the scene, followed by a boarding team to inspect cargo and documents. Local maritime officials observed and were standing by to assist Foscari and to inspect and escort the “merchant vessel” to port on completion of hand over procedure.The Theatre Security Cooperation (TSC) exercise was the seventh in a series conducted with regional nations since the Italian Navy assumed command of the task force, June 28.