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- 2009/04 - Counter-Piracy Operations in the Gulf of Aden
Third generation (2006 to present)
2009/04 - Counter-Piracy Operations in the Gulf of Aden
Exercise/Operation
Counter-Piracy Operations in Gulf of Aden
Helicopters
S-70B Seahawk
Year
2009
The RSAF deployed Super Pumas and Seahawk helicopters for Operation Blue Sapphire, the SAF's first counter-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden.
On 9 April 2009, the SAF deployed a task group to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. Bringing together elements from all three Services, the operation was the SAF’s first distant counter-piracy mission, also known as Operation Blue Sapphire. Its key objectives were to deter, disrupt, and suppress piracy to protect global maritime commerce, boost maritime security, and secure the freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations. The task group included two Super Puma helicopters and a Seahawk naval helicopter from the RSAF as well as the Landing Ship Tank RSS Persistence.
The two Super Puma Helicopters that were deployed for the SAF’s first distant counter-piracy operation.
A Fokker 50 group that was deployed for the anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden
Chief of Air Force MG Hoo Cher Mou interacting with RSAF personnel during a visit to the RSS Tenacious.
Servicemen on board the RSS Tenacious waiting for the gangway to be lowered during their homecoming.
Families waiting to be reunited with their loved ones.