The sixth rotation of the Autonomous Vessel Protection Detachment (AVPD) formed by the Lithuanian Armed Forces returns home from the European Union Operation ATALANTA. 12 Lithuanian soldiers were fighting piracy and armed robbery in the Indian Ocean alongside other EU countries for four months.
Having completed their tasks off the Somali coast with distinction and praised by operational commanders, the Lithuanian AVPD handed over the mission duties to a Serbian AVPD for the next four months earlier in the week.
Lithuania has been contributing to the international Operation ATALANTA since 2011: Lithuanian soldiers are helping to protect World Food Programme-chartered vessels taking humanitarian aid to Somali people via the Indian Ocean.
The EU Naval Force- Operation ATALANTA was launched in 2008 in response to the growing numbers of piracy cases off the coast of Somalia. Military vessels taking part in the operation provide escort to the WFP vessels transporting aid to the people of Somalia, deter and seize pirates and armed robbers in the area of operation in the Gulf of Aden and Somalian waters and support other operations and organisations enhancing maritime safety and capabilities in the region.
Lithuania’s contribution to international operations is an important expression of the commitment to international security. It also strengthens the EU Common Security and Defence Policy and faciliatates multilateral and bilateral cooperation.
Despite the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic which impedes rotations and slows down execution of tasks, the Lithuanian Armed Forces sends troops to 9 international operations and missions in 2021 thus contributing to the international community efforts to maintain peace and stability in the world, solve protracted conflicts and fight international terrorism. Over a 100 Lithuanian troops are currently serving in NATO, EU, and United Nations-led international missions and operations.
Photo and video: EU NAVFOR – ATALANTA
