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USNS Trenton and Tunisian Navy exercise maritime security capabilities

The expeditionary fast transport USNS Trenton participates in a photo exercise with the expeditionary sea base Hershel "Woody" Williams (not pictured) in the Mediterranean Sea, Aug. 20, 2020.

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Photo by: MCSA Conner Foy 

Military Sealift Command Spearhead-class Expeditionary Fast Transport USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) and Tunisian Navy partners conducted joint maritime operations to enhance maritime security, critical lifesaving capabilities, and Tunisia's ability to protect its maritime borders, Jan. 18-21, 2021.

The series of naval exercises with the Tunisian Navy focused on developing both nations’ ability to conduct maritime security operations in the Mediterranean, further enhancing cooperation between U.S. and Tunisian forces in support of shared security goals.

"It is important to work alongside our partners in the Mediterranean to improve our interoperability and teamwork," said Capt. Frank Okata, Commodore Military Sealift Command Europe and Africa and Commander, Task Force 63. "Conducting training exercises together with countries like Tunisia contributes to a more secure and stable region."

Demonstrating a shared commitment to enhance critical lifesaving capabilities in a COVID-19 degraded environment, all missions were conducted with respect for protocols protecting both U.S. and Tunisian forces against the spread of the virus.

In November, USS Hershel “Woody” Williams conducted joint maritime operations with the Tunisian Navy, while U.S. Special Forces conducted simulations to bolster counterterrorism capabilities, perform critical lifesaving tasks, and improve cooperation between U.S. and Tunisian forces.

MSC operates approximately 125 naval auxiliary civilian-crewed ships, replenishes U.S. Navy ships, strategically prepositions combat cargo at sea, and moves military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners around the world.

U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts joint and naval operations in order to support regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa