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Allies strengthen maritime security in the Mediterranean Sea during Operation Sea Guardian deployment

NATO Allied Maritime Command

Jul 15 2025

Mediterranean Sea -- NATO has concluded another successful focused operation under Operation Sea Guardian (OSG), reinforcing maritime situational awareness, counter-terrorism efforts, and cooperation with regional Allies and partners in the Mediterranean Sea.

During the focused operation, Allied ships and aircraft conducted coordinated patrols, facilitating information exchange while enhancing situational awareness of commercial shipping patterns to maintain a comprehensive maritime picture and deter illicit activity at sea.

While patrolling the Eastern Mediterranean, Hellenic Special Operation Forces (SOF) and the Georgian Boarding team aboard HS Elli (F450) conducted joint training on CPR and Tactical Combat Casualty Care. Teams exchanged insights about the administration of first aid, operating equipment, and small unit training, boosting readiness and interoperability for future operations.

"Assuming the command of a NATO Task Group was a great honour," said Hellenic Navy Captain Vasilios Stathoulias, who commanded the OSG task group. "During these past three weeks, we operated together with all Allied forces and partners as a team. Through our commitment and professionalism, we enhanced maritime situational awareness and promoted maritime security across the Eastern Mediterranean while acting as a deterrent against terrorism. Therefore, I'd like to extend my sincere gratitude to all participants. Your contribution was vital to the success of Operation Sea Guardian. With these efforts, NATO is making our seas safer and our Alliance stronger."

During the deployment, OSG units focused on three core tasks; Maritime situational awareness - gathering and sharing real-time data to ensure a shared understanding of activity in the Mediterranean. Counter-terrorism at sea - conducting patrols and hailing operations to prevent the use of the maritime domain for terrorist activity. Capacity building - engaging with regional navies and coastguards to strengthen interoperability and readiness.

OSG continues to serve as a flexible, non-Article 5 maritime security operation, complementing NATO's broader deterrence and defence posture. This recent deployment once again demonstrates NATO's commitment to safeguarding key sea lines of communication, supporting Allies, and fostering regional cooperation.

As global maritime challenges persist, Operation Sea Guardian helps to ensure the Mediterranean remains a secure and stable environment for all shipping.

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM