Naval Force novelties during 2020

Published: Wednesday, 22 January 2020 12:57

Following the termination of its three year contribution on the Aegean Sea, the Naval Force has planned new engagements for 2020, this time on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

The Chief of the Naval Force Staff, CDR Sabri Gjinollari, spoke not only about this year's innovations but also about modernization plans. "The Naval Force’s main objectives for 2020 are to maintain the operational and combat readiness of NF formations.

This year, too, modernization plans will focus primarily on operational capacity and ship readiness through the provision of new systems that will help carry out all operations of the Naval Force. Some of the major modernization plans for 2020 are automated ship identification systems, satellite communications and data transmission equipment, as well as equipment needed to create a demining data center. "- emphasized CDR Sabri Gjinollari.

Following the conclusion of the engagement in the NATO mission on the Aegean Sea, the Albanian Naval Force ships will be present in various exercises and campaigns on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, with the aim of enhancing safety and enforcing compliance with law at sea. "We have completed the activity on the Aegean Sea, which was part of the Sea Guardian Operation. During this year we will focus more on enhancing maritime presence, strengthening regional maritime security by conducting a naval campaign, which means that Illyria-class vessels will participate in various activities across the region, ranging from Greece, Italy, Croatia, Slovenia and Montenegro." - said the Chief of the Naval Force Staff, who also mentioned an important event for the Albanian fleet during this year. "This year we will also celebrate the 95th Anniversary of the Naval Force, which will have all our special attention and care."

The Albanian Naval Force’s mission is to secure and safeguard the sovereignty of the maritime space of the Republic of Albania in cooperation with other structures of the Armed Forces, as well as enforce compliance with law at sea in cooperation with relevant state institutions in the maritime area.