Visit of CECMED Commander Vice Admiral Christophe LUCAS to IRINI Operational Headquarters
Today 8th November, Vice Admiral Christophe LUCAS, Commander in Chief for Mediterranean Maritime Zone (CECMED), visited the EUNAVFOR MED IRINI Operational Headquarters (OHQ) in Rome. Rear Admiral Valentino RINALDI, IRINI’s Operation Commander, extended a warm welcome to Vice Admiral LUCAS and the CECMED delegation. They both shared their common views on Maritime Security goals.
The visit began with an in-depth briefing on the core tasks and achievements of the Operation. Established to uphold the UN arms embargo on Libya, monitoring suspicious activities that could contribute to illicit arms flows, IRINI operates in the Central Mediterranean also to prevent illicit export of petroleum and human smuggling. Through close monitoring and inspections, IRINI works to strengthen EU efforts toward peace and stability in the region.
Vice Admiral LUCAS had also the chance to visit the Joint Operation Center (JOC), the heart of IRINI’s OHQ. The JOC operates on a 24/7 basis and is responsible for real-time Maritime Situational Awareness across the area of operation (AOO). Equipped with surveillance and communication systems, the JOC constantly monitors vessels of interest crossing the AOO, ensuring constant coordination with the Force Headquarters (FHQ) at sea.
At the end of his visit, Vice Admiral Lucas greeted all the French personnel on duty at OHQ, expressing his deep appreciation for their work and dedication.
