On August 9, 2024, the multinational maritime security initiative, Operation Safe Domain III, was successfully concluded. This joint operation, aimed at securing the maritime domain of Zone E member states, including Benin, Nigeria, Togo, and the Republic of Niger, was designed to combat maritime threats and ensure regional security. Capt. Idongesit Udoessien, Commanding Officer of DB ABUJA and Officer in Tactical Command (OTC) of the operation, provided a detailed debrief on the operation’s outcomes.
Operation Safe Domain III, the third iteration of joint maritime operations and patrols organized by the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone E, took place from August 5 to 9, 2024. The operation focused on exercising sea control and denying pirates and other maritime criminals freedom of action within the operational area, which covered approximately 105,746 square nautical miles. This area included the territorial waters, contiguous zones, and exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Zone E member states.
During the operation, multiple naval units from the participating nations conducted a series of maritime patrols, surveillance, reconnaissance, and boarding inspections. The DB ABUJA, NNS KANO, BNS ALIBORI, and TNS AGOU were among the vessels involved, supported by helicopters, UAVs, and special forces teams. The continuous maritime patrols ensured the monitoring and securing of the operational area, with each country’s contiguous zone divided into four patrol areas for independent patrols. These efforts were carried out throughout the operation by the task group (TG).
The operation also involved significant surveillance and reconnaissance activities. Surface vessels, helicopters, and UAVs were deployed to provide real-time intelligence and situational awareness, leading to the successful identification and tracking of vessels of interest (VOI). Five scenarios were conducted during the exercise, with comprehensive surveillance ensuring a clear operational picture at all times.
In addition, two major boarding operations were conducted to verify compliance with maritime regulations. In one instance, an anti-IUU fishing exercise in Nigerian waters involved the boarding of a fishing vessel by DB ABUJA’s visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) team. Another boarding operation in Benin waters focused on anti-drug, human smuggling, and stowaway scenarios. The operation also featured seven joint exercises to enhance interoperability and coordination among the allied naval forces, including communication drills, anti-piracy interdictions, search operations, and coordinated patrols.
Despite the operation’s overall success, Capt. Udoessien highlighted some challenges encountered, including initial communication issues with the operations center and disruptions due to technical problems with satellite links. However, these challenges were overcome through the use of alternative communication channels. Key lessons learned from Operation Safe Domain III included the importance of enhanced coordination, the integration of UAVs and helicopters for real-time intelligence, and the value of early planning and briefings. These factors contributed significantly to the operation’s success.
In his recommendations, Capt. Udoessien emphasized the need for continued investment in advanced surveillance technology, strengthening communication infrastructure, and maintaining regular joint exercises to further improve maritime security in the region. He also highlighted the importance of involving Maritime Operational Centers (MOCs) in the planning and execution of future operations.
In his concluding remarks, Capt. Udoessien expressed gratitude to the governments and leadership of the Zone E countries for their commitment to maritime security and praised the successful collaboration among the participating units. He noted that the operation had not only achieved its objectives but also demonstrated the region’s ability to synergize efforts to ensure maritime safety and security.
“Operation Safe Domain III was a huge success, and we have shown the world that we can work together at the sub-regional level to ensure a thriving blue economy for the Zone E nations,” Capt. Udoessien stated.
The morale of the participating personnel was reported to be high, with all specified tasks successfully completed. The operation highlighted the importance of continued collaboration and technological advancement in safeguarding the region’s maritime domain.