First Irini mission off Libya

Today we’ve tracked the first mission as part of new EUNAVFOR MED “Irini” operation: a Fairchild Dornier SA-227DC (N919CK) departed from Sigonella AB this morning around 06:00 CEST made a 6 hrs patrol mission off eastern Libya. The aircraft is landed again in Sigonella at 12:32 CEST.

The main goal of EUNAVFOR MED IRINI is to support the implementation of the arms embargo imposed by the UN Security Council to Libya. It does so by using maritime, aerial and satellite means.

Alongside this main objective, Operation Irini has a series of secondary tasks. It will provide monitoring and surveillance to prevent illicit oil exports from Libya. It will carry out capacity building and training for the Libyan Coast Guard and Navy. And it will support the fight against human smuggling and trafficking networks.

(thanks to Sergio Scandura)