SAF TASK GROUP DETERS ATTACK IN GULF OF ADEN

The Singapore Armed Forces Task Group (SAF TG) deployed to the Gulf of Aden successfully prevented an attack on a merchant ship on 25 Apr, a day after commencing operations.

The task group had received an emergency call for assistance from the MV Harmony Falcon, a Mongolian-registered vessel. In response, the SAF TG dispatched a Super Puma helicopter to investigate the suspected pirate boats, and deterred an attack on the merchant ship.

Operating as part of the Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, the SAF TG's role is to conduct patrols in the Gulf of Aden to deter pirate attacks. The multinational CTF 151 was established in January this year to protect international shipping in and around the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.

The SAF TG is staffed by 240 personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force, on board the RSS Persistence, a Landing Ship Tank (LST) from the Republic of Singapore Navy. Also on board the LST are two Super Puma helicopters from the Republic of Singapore Air Force. The task group will be in the Gulf of Aden for three months.

28 Apr 09 - SAF Task Group Begins Operations in Gulf of Aden

09 Apr 09 - 240-Strong SAF Task Group Leaves for Gulf of Aden

09 Apr 09 - SAF task group sets off for Gulf of Aden