Laboon Conducts Counterpiracy Operations with NATO Partners
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS090809-01
Release Date: 8/9/2009 4:08:00 AM
From USS Laboon Public Affairs
USS LABOON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Laboon (DDG 58) directly contributed to NATO's counterpiracy operation known as Operation Allied Protector while deployed in direct support of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG 2).
As part of SNMG 2, Laboon, along with four other ships from Greece, Italy, Turkey and the United Kingdom, is actively patrolling an area in the Gulf of Aden known as the International Recognized Transit Corridor or IRTC.
The focus of the mission is to deter and disrupt piracy as well as protect vulnerable shipping in the region. NATO's increased presence, as well as the addition of several other coalition units, have helped provide reassurance to commercial traffic who heavily rely on these waters to safely transport their goods to market.
"Laboon has played a significant role in NATO's counterpiracy effort so far," said Commander SNMG 2, Commodore Steve Chick, British Royal Navy.
"Her unceasing vigilance in the shipping lanes and highly visible deterrent patrols close to shore have been key to keeping the pirates on the back foot whilst demonstrating NATO's and the U.S. Navy's commitment to protect innocent shipping."
Laboon's visit, board, search and seizure team members completed extensive training with other SNMG 2 partners in preparation for this operation, and the ship has conducted multiple patrols in the region.
Laboon completes its seven-month deployment later this year.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe -U.S. Naval Forces Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.
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