Marshal Shaposhnikov to escort next convoy on May 18

17.05.2010 Pacific Fleet (PF) large ASW ship Marshal Shaposhnikov which arrived Sunday to port of Djibouti after successful release operation of tanker Moscow University will escort an international convoy through the Gulf of Aden on May 18, said Capt 1 rank Ildar Akhmerov, PF task force commander.

"Today we've called at port of Djibouti to replenish water supplies and have a brief rest after difficult operation", said Akhmerov at the reception held in Russia's embassy to Djibouti in honor of the crew of Marshal Shaposhnikov.

"On Monday at 6 pm we'll sail off to proceed with anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden. On May 18 our ship will start escorting international convoy of up to 10 vessels through the gulf to the east", said the commander.

According to him, eastward trip will last 4 days; the same time will be necessary to return back.

Akhmerov specified that Marshal Shaposhnikov would continue countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden "at least till the end of May".

"Our further presence in the region depends on the tasks assigned", he said.

Akhmerov added that tanker Moscow University had been escorted by Marshal Shaposhnikov right up to safe zone of the gulf; then the tanker headed for United Arab Emirates. "The tug with marine unit on board escorted the vessel in her way to the port", specified PF task unit commander.

In addition, Akhmerov told that the crew of Marshal Shaposhnikov celebrated the Victory Day with dress parade on the top deck where the personnel were given awards and presents. "After that, simultaneously with Moscow parade we carried out our 40-min naval parade. Then there was a festive lunch with traditional fleet's borscht and various fruit. Afternoon the crew arranged a solemn concert with songs popular during the Great Patriotic War", said the commander.