100 years of the Naval Force: The sea as a national interest, security and sovereignty ensured through real capabilities

Published: Thursday, 18 December 2025 13:16

 

The Albanian Naval Force marked the 100th anniversary of its establishment with a solemn ceremony attended by the country’s highest authorities.

President of the Republic Bajram Begaj, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, stated that in today’s security environment, the Albanian Naval Force represents Albania’s presence and responsibility in the Mediterranean space and within the Euro-Atlantic defence architecture. The Head of State emphasized the importance of ongoing investments aimed at further modernizing the Naval Force in cooperation with regional and European allies, as well as NATO.

In his address, Defence Minister Pirro Vengu underlined the strategic importance of the sea for national security, sovereignty, and identity, noting that for decades Albania had underestimated its maritime dimension.

“Albania has never lost the sea, but for long periods it has lost the awareness of what it means to have it.” - the Minister stated, adding that the sea is not a decorative element or merely a tourist backdrop, but a source of wealth, connectivity, infrastructure, and a responsibility of the state.

Minister Vengu recalled that the establishment of the Naval Force on December 25, 1925, with its first two vessels, Shqipnia and Skënderbeu, was a clear act of state-building, aimed at restoring Albania’s attention to the sea. A century later, he said, the challenges have become more complex:
“Today, the sea is not challenged only by conventional fleets. It is challenged by hybrid threats, illegal trafficking, migratory pressure, supply chain disruptions, and regional instability. This clearly highlights the role of the Mediterranean and the responsibilities that the country must be able, and must have the capacity, to exercise in the Adriatic-Ionian area.” - Minister Vengu stressed, adding that this area of interest is not the periphery of European security, but one of its centers.

The Minister emphasized that today the Albanian Naval Force is fully functional and active, operating alongside NATO in real missions such as Sea Guardian and other operations in the Mediterranean.

Referring to the “Defence 2030” vision, Minister Vengu outlined five main pillars for the development of the Naval Force: investment in people and professional crews; industrial sovereignty through shipbuilding and maintenance at the Pashaliman Naval Base; the enhancement of operational capabilities; the development of critical infrastructure such as Porto Romano and Corridor VIII; and the strengthening of national resilience through a modern Coast Guard.
“The Naval Force continues the modernization of its fleet with new combat vessels, multi-purpose platforms, and capabilities for mine countermeasures and underwater surveillance.” Minister Vengu emphasized.

The ceremony was attended by sailors, non-commissioned officers, officers, and veterans who have served in the Albanian Naval Force.