HMS Duncan becomes flagship of Nato task group patrolling Mediterranean
The Royal Navy's Destroyer HMS Duncan is now the flagship for Nato's Standing Maritime Group 2.
The vessel will lead the group, made up of five warships, that will patrol waters between Gibraltar and the eastern shore of the Mediterranean.
The task force is comprised of HMS Duncan, plus frigates Languedoc, from France, Fredericton, from Canada, the Italian Carabiniere and the Spanish support ship Patino.
A 24-strong staff, three-quarters of it Royal Navy, supported by Nato comrades from Greece, Turkey, Romania, Bulgaria and Spain, will direct the group's activities, under the command of the Royal Navy's Commodore Paul Stroude.
Command of the group was formally handed to HMS Duncan at a ceremony held aboard the group's outgoing flagship, Arleigh Burke destroyer USS James E Williams.
Cdre Stroude said: "Whilst this may mark a change in the leadership, it is also a sign of continuity – a continuity underpinned by the three decades this task group has patrolled these waters, as we celebrate the passing of leadership from one Nato ally to another.
"It is a reminder of the promise that exists at the heart of the alliance: that in our collective strength lies the guarantee of peace and stability for all our nations."
Under the command of the US warship, the force had been spread out across the Mediterranean during deployments – this was done to increase the area patrolled and allow the group to 'multi-task'.
Together, the ships have conducted exercises and operations, worked with allied and partner nations across the region, represented and promoted the alliance during port visits and responded to major events when required.
Cdre Stroude added: "Taking command of this Nato task group is a huge privilege but an enormous responsibility, made more so since Russia's illegal and brutal invasion of Ukraine last year.
"When coupled with an ever-present terrorist threat, we are facing some of the gravest security challenges since World War Two, and global peace and stability cannot be taken for granted.
"However, nothing illustrates the strength, resolve and capability of the Nato alliance more than task groups such as this.
"Under my command, this group of first-class ships will work tirelessly to deliver reassurance and security to our regional allies and partners, while maintaining the capability to deter our adversaries.
"If necessary, we are ready to defend Nato territorial integrity."
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