German Navy Heads Mission in Africa

The German navy has once again taken over leadership of the international patrol of shipping lines along the Horn of Africa. Navy headquarters in Flensburg made the announcement Tuesday and said the responsibility was part of Germany’s contribution to the international anti-terror operation “Enduring Freedom.” For three years now, German ships and aircraft have patrolled the narrow shipping lanes along the eastern coast of Africa near Djibuti. In May 2002 Germany first took over the helm from the United States. The German fleet consists of 10 ships and several airplanes. Approximately 300 soldiers are stationed in Djibuti.