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OPERATION ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR!
Background
As a result of the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks, NATO launched Operation Active Endeavour as part of the Global War on Terrorism. The operation commenced in October 2001.
Operation Active Endeavour is based on international law and directly supports United Nations resolutions against threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts. Following NATO's decision to implement Article 5 of the Washington Treaty following the 11 September 2001 attacks against the United States, NATO agreed to implement 8 specific measures to contribute to the campaign against terrorism. These measures included, amongst others, the provision to deploy elements of NATO's Standing Naval Forces to the eastern Mediterranean in order to provide a deterrent presence and surveillance in strategic international waters at a key moment. In the course of the past years, Operation Active Endeavour, NATO's first Article 5, collective-defense operation, has evolved from a small scale deployment providing a modest military presence in an important stretch of sea into a comprehensive, continuously adapting, counter terrorism operation throughout the Mediterranean.
• SACEUR through COM JFC Naples has authorized Commander Maritime Command Naples, as Commander ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR, to conduct naval operations in order to demonstrate NATO's resolve. NATO Maritime Command Naples commands the operation to deter terrorism in the Mediterranean and contribute to the peace, stability, and security of all nations in the area.
• Well-trained military personnel onboard warships, submarines, and aircraft are dedicated to ensure the success of Operation Active Endeavour.
• Non-NATO nations such as Russia and Ukraine are trained to participate in Operation Active Endeavour and provide assets to improve the efficiency of the operation. Other nations such as Morocco and Algeria see the benefits of cooperation or participating in Operation Active Endeavour, and are willing to do so.
Any suspicious behaviour at sea might be considered as a potential indication of illegal or terrorist activity. Cooperation with Operation Active Endeavour forces provides for the safe and secure movement of vessels at sea and reduces the time spent on inspections at sea and ashore.