Combined Task Force 150’s (CTF-150) flagship, French Ship (FS) Var, had on-going interactions in the Indian Ocean, with Her Majesty’s Ship (HMS) Richmond, who has been operating in direct support to CTF-150. This meeting at sea was the occasion for Commander CTF150 Captain (Capt) Crignola to meet HMS Richmond’s Commanding officer, Commander (Cdr). Anderson onboard the British ship.

FS Var crew member coordinating Replenishment at sea with HMS Richmond
FS Var crew member coordinating Replenishment at sea with HMS Richmond

While on patrol undertaking Maritime Security Operations in the Indian Ocean, FS Var crossed paths with HMS Richmond. This meeting at sea was the opportunity for Cdr Mark Anderson, to invite Capt. René-Jean Crignola, onboard HMS Richmond. After a short transfer by Richmond’s Lynx, Capt. Crignola met with the Richmond’s crew and received a presentation of the ship’s capabilities and assets. The discussion was the occasion for both officers to share their views on regional maritime security.

Replenishment at sea between CTF150 flagship FS Var and HMS Richmond under rough sea
Replenishment at sea between CTF150 flagship FS Var and HMS Richmond under rough sea

CTF-150 is part of the Combined Maritime Forces organization which is a professional, capable and alert force operating in an apolitical environment conducting a broad spectrum of Maritime Security Operations. It is composed of 30 nations from across the globe, who is dedicated to providing an enduring presence in the region, thus setting the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment

After the meeting, FS Var conducted replenishment at sea with Richmond. Under rough sea and rainy weather, the French supply ship delivered fuel to her British counterpart. These sensitive manoeuvres, which require a high degree of interoperability between both navies, were conducted efficiently and successfully. On completion and before continuing on course, in accordance with maritime tradition, Var greeted her counterpart with the farewell song ‘When the rain begins to fall’ chosen for the occasion.

HMS Richmond Commanding Officer, Cdr. Anderson and his crew, monitoring replenishment at sea made by FS Var, CTF150 flagship.
HMS Richmond Commanding Officer, Cdr. Anderson and his crew, monitoring replenishment at sea made by FS Var, CTF150 flagship.

Commenting on these interactions, Capt. Crignola warmly hailed the British’s crew for their commitment to CTF-150 missions. “We need to keep working together to enhance maritime security throughout the region. Our ships, aircrafts and their crew are more effective together than any single ship, aircraft or country working alone. These joint efforts help build a lawful maritime order and I am sure that we will keep on that way”, he added.

Commander of CTF150, Capt. Crignola meets HMS Richmond Commanding Officer, Cdr. Anderson, onboard the British ship.
Commander of CTF150, Capt. Crignola meets HMS Richmond Commanding Officer, Cdr. Anderson, onboard the British ship.