Greek Coast Guard Night Surveillance Mission Against Illegal Immigration

Last night, a Greek Coast Guard drone, identified as UC-02, conducted an extended mission to monitor illegal immigration, patrolling the Eastern Mediterranean area. The IAI Heron-type drone took off from the island of Crete and surveilled the waters between Greece and Libya, focusing particularly on the area south of Crete and towards the northern African coast, operating along the edges of the Greek FIR.

The aircraft followed a well-defined route, characterized by straight trajectories and zig-zag movements, indicating a targeted patrol activity. This operation, part of Greece’s ongoing efforts to counter the flow of illegal migrants crossing the Mediterranean, was made possible through the use of advanced technologies like the IAI Heron drone. This aircraft is known for its long-range surveillance capabilities and extended flight endurance, making it particularly suited for maritime monitoring and border control missions.

The monitored area is of crucial importance, as it represents one of the main transit points for boats departing from North African coasts, heading towards Europe. The weather conditions and geographic layout of the region often facilitate illegal crossings, posing significant risks to the lives of migrants.

Through operations like this, the Greek Coast Guard aims to prevent tragedies at sea and ensure compliance with international border control laws. The UC-02 mission represents just one of many coordinated actions between Greece and other European states to manage the migration crisis, which remains one of the most urgent and complex issues in the Mediterranean region.