NATO launches Sea Guardian 2020 exercise in the Mediterranean

NATO has launched the Sea Guardian 2020 maritime exercise in the Eastern Mediterranean. The operation involves surface units, submarines, helicopters, patrol aircraft, and unmanned vehicles from Italy, Greece, and Turkey.

Commanded by the Turkish anti-submarine corvette TCG Büyükada, the mission focuses on patrolling to identify suspicious vessels involved in terrorism or migrant trafficking. The exercise includes the use of drones, helicopters, and Turkish naval special forces for boarding operations. Despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, NATO Maritime Command stated that all necessary precautions and medical protocols have been implemented to ensure the safety of personnel and the continuity of operations.