PF task unit returned home from anti-piracy mission
25.06.2010
Text: RusNavy.com
Photo: Marshal Shaposhnikov at Guam Island, 2006. Edward N. Vasquez
The fourth PF task unit consisting of large ASW ship Marshal Shaposhnikov, tanker Pechenga, and ocean-going salvage tug MB-37 returned to Vladivostok today. Pacific mariners have been on mission for four months, including 2-month patrol at the Horn of Africa. Three piglet roasts being the symbol of successfully completed long-range cruise were handed out to the crews by Admiral Konstantin Sidenko, Pacific Fleet (PF) Commander.
The unit headed by Capt 1 rank Ildar Akhmerov left Vladivostok on Feb 24 and had been attending international anti-piracy mission since March 27 till June 5. Large ASW ship Marshal Shaposhnikov had two deck-based helicopters on board; they had been providing permanent aerial reconnaissance. Besides, on board each vessel were PF marine units which had to counter pirates many times, including successful release operation of captured tanker Moscow University.
As reported by RIA Novosti citing the PF Commander, the unit has worthily accomplished the mission. "Brilliant operation conducted by Pacific mariners while releasing captured tanker Moscow University was highly appraised not only by Russian defense ministry but numerous foreign military commands", said Admiral K. Sidenko at the meeting ceremony held at the Golden Horn Harbor. All participants of the tanker release operation were distinguished by state awards which will be triumphantly handed out in the nearest time.
During anti-piracy mission the unit had escorted 11 convoys with over 100 merchant ships from various countries, reported RIA Novosti citing Capt 1 rank Roman Martov, the head of PF Information and Public Relations Service.
According to Martov, directors of numerous foreign companies sent dozens of grateful letters and telegrams to PF command.
Most of shipmasters were seeking to join convoys escorted by Russian mariners as the length of their route was much longer than the ordinary ones. That provided extra security guarantees for crews of civil ships, Martov said.