Patrol boat commanders train in tactical manoeuvring

The Armed Forces of Malta's maritime squadron conducted a day's exercise with the participation of the majority of its vessels.

The exercise's aim was to train potential patrol boat commanders in tactical manoeuvring.

This aerial picture shows the AFM patrol craft on exercise off the Delimara coast. Leading the small flotilla is the Kondor class offshore patrol boat P31, followed on either side by the two new Protector class patrol boats P51 and P52, the two Swift class patrol boats P23 and P24 and the two Melita class search and rescue launches.

The two Swift class boats have been in operation with 2nd Regiment since 1971 and along with the Protector class boats they were donated by the US government.

The maritime squadron is at its busiest peak during the summer months, patrolling Maltese waters in connection with the illegal entry of migrants and ensuring the legitimate use of waterways, while also preventing illegal fishing. As a maritime law-enforcement body, it conducts anti-narcotics and anti-contraband operations besides providing maritime search and rescue services.

The 2nd Regiment is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Harold Stivala and its maritime squadron is under the command of Major Martin Cauchi-Inglott.

The squadron is based at Haywharf in Floriana and has a complement of 10 officers and 200 men.