USS Robert G. Bradley (FFG 49) conducted part of a Theater Security Cooperation mission January 6-7, 2009 while visiting the African port of Cotonou, Benin.

Sailors of Bradley and the Beninese Navy reviewed and practiced Search and Rescue (SAR) techniques, Automated Identification Systems (AIS), Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) tactics, antiterrorism force protection (ATFP), as well as small engine repair and maintenance.

During the SAR portion of the interactive mission, sailors from both countries demonstrated various searching patterns, maneuvering techniques, and environmental factors.

"The Beninese sailors enjoyed discussing SAR techniques with us," said Chief Operations Specialist(SW) Marvin L. Barnes. "They were very interested in the way we conduct operations."

Further techniques of VBSS and ATFP followed during the TSC mission as both navies simulated multiple scenarios in different spaces aboard Bradley. Basic VBSS subjects were covered such as weapons handling, tactical team movements, space clearing and searching techniques.

Bradley's ATFP team and fourteen members of the Beninese Navy covered bomb threats, searching techniques, and dealing with improvised explosive devices. As part of an exercise, a car was driven onto the pier so that the group could get hands-on experience with bomb searching procedures.

Another integral topic covered during the visit was the Automatic Identification System (AIS), a tool that aids in the identification and location of different types of vessels to help improve maritime safety and security. Benin's Chief of Naval Operations, Maxime Ahoyo, participated in reviews and discussions of AIS.

The U.S. Navy's Preventative Maintenance System (PMS) was also reviewed and practiced with Beninese Sailors as part of the hands-on small engine repair and maintenance section of the mission. Both navies demonstrated and compared their procedures and discussed the benefits of each.

As an added benefit during the TSC visit, tours of Bradley were given to the Beninese sailors, and many U.S. sailors volunteered for community relations projects at the Hubert K. Maga National Hospital and the Terres de Hommes, an orphanage for trafficked children. Sailors painted facilities at both locations and donated needed supplies.

"We had a lot of fun painting the hospital and delivering supplies," said Ensign Ryan Darrow, Bradley crewmember. "Their appreciation for it was overwhelming."

Bradley's TSC visit to Cotonou concluded January 9, 2009 Bradley is on a regularly scheduled deployment in the Sixth Fleet area of responsibility to help improve maritime safety and security and strengthen ongoing maritime partnerships.