Operation SOPHIA: “fair winds” to the Belgian frigate Leopold I
The European Task Force EUNAVFOR MED operation SOPHIA wishes “fair winds” to the Belgian frigate Leopold I, after 38 days of activity at sea, in the Mediterranean.
The crew, composed of 158 sailors, including 9 women, provided a truly professional and human support to Operation Sophia. They intensely ran on duty within a Task Force composed of 8 naval units and 9 air assets, led by the Force Commander, the Italian Rear Admiral Andrea Gueglio, embarked on board the Flagship Cavour, together with the multinational staff.
During their operational activities, Leopold I contributed to save 258 migrants, including 59 men, 3 women and 159 minors. Following the rescue operation, 4 smugglers have been identified as smugglers and delivered to the Italian judicial authorities.
Furthermore, “Bluebird” – the helicopter ALOUETTE 3 embarked onboard – performed 22 air surveillance operations.
“This mission was a new experience for the Leopold and turned out also to be very tactically and humanly interesting, all the crew was proud being part of it” said Captain Luc De Maesschalck, the Commanding Officer of the Belgian ship.