Exercise Cutlass Express 2016 commences

Cutlass Express scenarios will test watchstanders’ ability to respond to illicit trafficking, piracy, illegal fishing, and search and rescue situations.

Exercise Cutlass Express 2016 commences

Maritime forces from eastern Africa, western Indian Ocean island nations, Europe and the United States, as well as several international organizations began the fifth iteration of the multinational maritime exercise Cutlass Express on January 30.

Cutlass Express 2016, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), is designed to improve regional cooperation, maritime domain awareness (MDA) and information sharing practices to increase capabilities of participating nations to counter sea-based illicit activity.

“Cutlass Express is another great example of the global network of Navies. During this exercise, partner nations will come together and increase maritime security,” said Vice Adm. James Foggo III, Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet.

To continue reading, please click here.

Source: defenceweb.co.za