Concept of Operation Active Endeavour!
As a result of NAC direction following the periodic mission review a revised operational pattern was adopted on 1 October 2004 for OAE.
• OAE was initially designed as an asset based operation, using the two SNMGs in rotation. These forces supported by other air, surface and subsurface units, conducted presence and surveillance activities. These activities included hailing and compliant boarding’s of selected vessels. The new modus operandi for OAE is to gather and process information and intelligence(I&I) that allows the Commander to focus on selected Contacts of Interest (COIs). The new operational pattern uses surface forces as reaction units to conduct specific tasks such as locating, tracking, reperting and boarding of selected vessels. While not engaged in these tasks, surface units patrol areas of interest based on intelligence in order to detect suspicious activity. They also maintain a proactive posture and are supplemented by periodic surge operations wherein augmented forces, such as one of the other SNMGs will join Task Force Endeavour (TFE) for a period of time to provide more intensive operations in selected areas. MPA and submarine carry out coordinated patrols in the most significant areas of COI activity, in order to detect suspect behaviour and determine the COIs' operating patterns.
• In the straits of Gibraltar (STROG) NATO continues to be prepared to escort allied non-combatant shipping through the chock point as a means of providing protection against terrorist attacks. This operation is threat dependent.
• At all times, NATO units dedicated to Active Endeavour are patrolling the Mediterranean, collecting information and assessing the situation to their vicinity. They provide the visible presence and potential reaction forces that may respond rapidly if required.
• OAE assets are now under the direct Command and Control (C2) of MARCOM-Naples as COM AE. He normally assigns an at-sea CTG.
• Emerging tasks include supporting NATO's Mediterranean Dialogue Initiative. This is a vital part of widening the counter-terrorist net on involving non-NATO Nations.