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PANAMAX 2009 Tests Peruvian Frigate's Capabilities

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090921-03
Release Date: 9/21/2009 2:24:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alan Gragg, U.S. Southern Command Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The Peruvian frigate BAP Quiñones (FM 58) is testing the full spectrum of its abilities during the multinational exercise Fuerzas Aliadas PANAMAX 2009 Sept. 11-22.

The Quiñones is part of Combined Task Force (CTF) Pacific, which consists of vessels from nine partner nations training to defend the Pacific Ocean end of the Panama Canal.

"We want to increase our interoperability with other nations' navies, since the focus of this operation is to protect the Panama Canal," said Quiñones' commanding officer, Peruvian Navy Capt. Alberto Alcala. "Our presence here is also to collaborate with the fight against narco-trafficking."

CTF Pacific, commanded by Peruvian Rear Adm. Edmundo Deville Del Campo, consists of vessels from Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, and Peru. Another task force, commanded by Colombian Rear Adm. Roberto Garcia Marquez, is operating in the Caribbean Sea with U.S., Panamanian, Dutch, and Uruguayan vessels.

More than 20 vessels and a dozen aircraft are involved in the exercise. Participants are focusing on a variety of responses to any request from the Government of Panama to protect and guarantee safe passage of traffic through the Panama Canal, ensure its neutrality, and respect national sovereignty. Simulated ground forces are also participating at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

"I think it's different, because there is no schedule, just quick reaction," said Peruvian Navy Ens. Alejandra Vasquez, weapons division officer aboard Quiñones. "It is also a great opportunity, because I can practice my language. For example, I can practice how quickly I can do an inquiry."

Partnership is key to the exercise's goal of improving regional security.

According to Alcala, who worked as a liaison officer on the staff of U.S. 3rd Fleet in San Diego before commanding Quiñones, his multinational experience has benefited his career.

"Through the years, I have been gaining some experience on how the U.S. Navy works," said Alcala. "I think it's a good opportunity for my ship and my crew to gain experience in multinational force operations."

FA PANAMAX 2009 is one of the largest multinational training exercises in the world, and is taking place in the waters off the coasts of Panama with the participation of civil and military forces. The exercise was first held in 2003 with three partner nations.