Spain takes command of European anti-piracy operation
(BRUSSELS2) Germany, which commands the anti-piracy operation in the Indian Ocean area, should pass the torch to Spain on 6 December. The supply ship El Patino left the port of Ferrol on Monday to reach the Indian Ocean. Placed under the command of frigate captain Enrique Cubeiro Cabello, this ship comprises 215 soldiers, including a team of marine commandos for boarding and assault. It has 2 SH3D "Sea King" helicopters and 4 semi-rigid boats, as well as an on-board hospital. It will serve until April 2012 as FHQ (force command headquarters) for the European anti -piracy. It is Captain Jorge Ferreiroa Manso who will command the various ships in the area, taking over from his German counterpart, the Rear Admiral Thomas EP Jugel. In April 2012, it should be up to a Frenchman to take his turn as "watch "of command.
