BLACKSEAFOR activation entered active phase

13.04.2011 Warships of 6 countries participating in the BLACKSEAFOR international naval task group (Bulgaria, Georgia, Russia, Romania, Turkey, and Ukraine) will conduct a number of drills in the southwest Black Sea.

Turkish frigate Barbaros and assault boat Mizrak will hold national exercise Starfish along with BLACKSEAFOR ships. Aircraft of Turkish Air Force will attend some elements of the exercise. The maneuvers will be conducted under overall leadership of a Romanian Navy's representative.

Multinational force will repel "attack" of small-sized fast target, train surface surveillance within operational zone, conduct drills on search-and-rescue of a man overboard and replenish supplies underway. It is also planned to test knowledge of BLACKSEAFOR-related documents. Greater attention will be paid on tracing suspect vessels, their inspection, and use force in accordance with international maritime laws.

BSF large landing ship Yamal was appointed director of antiaircraft, light signaling, and joint maneuvering drills.

On Apr 15 when sea phase of BLACKSEAFOR activation is over, the ships will call at Sevastopol.