Further to the Operational Maritime Law (OML) and On Scene Coordinator (OSC) courses held in Malta between the 22 and 26 May 2023, the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) and Libyan General Administration for Coastal Security (GACS) have conducted a joint maritime exercise by the name ‘DOLPHIN 1’. This exercise was held in Malta between the 17 and 24 July 2023 and focused on Maritime Border Management and Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE) scenarios.
Exercise ‘DOLPHIN 1’ is the first maritime exercise organised between the GACS and the AFM and includes both in port as well as at sea activities. The aim of this exercise is to further develop the principles learnt during the latter mentioned course, to share operating practices utilised during the conduct of maritime operations and to further improve the cooperation, capabilities, and interoperability between Forces.
The GACS has deployed two patrol vessels for this exercise namely PV 300 and PV 301. The AFM also participated in this exercise by means of fixed wing and rotary wing aircrafts, boarding team directional staff and maritime assets.
This exercise is deemed to be a steppingstone in improving the capabilities of both nations on numerous operational aspects which may be encountered and conducted in the Mediterranean Sea with the aim of enhancing safety and security in the region. Furthermore, this exercise will aim to strengthen the cooperation between countries within the region and pave the path towards further fruitful cooperation in the future.
Photos: AFM
