Nine coalition officers assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa expanded their multi-national coalition efforts by visiting the French frigate Dupleix (D 641) in Djibouti Port August 14, 2010. Representing nations from Africa, Europe and Asia, the coalition officers were provided a tour of the warship and engaged in an English-speaking dialog with its officers.

"It's my second time on a ship since I've been in Djibouti," said Egyptian Army Lieutenant Colonel Ahmad Elshazly, who is one of the coalition officers and Egypt's liaison to CJTF-HOA. "This (visit) is an availability to build a relationship."

French Navy Lieutenant Loïc Boyer, Dupleix' 2nd anti-submarine warfare officer guided the coalition officers around the frigate, explaining its many offensive and defensive capabilities, its role in the current deployment, and its name sake heritage. The tour ended in the officer's wardroom where coalition officers had an opportunity to ask questions and engage with crew members.

The nine CJTF-HOA coalition officers are all active military officers representing Kenya, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Comoros, Egypt, Romania, South Korea and France. There are currently 18 coalition officers deployed between 3-12 months to the Djibouti-based combined joint command, which employs civil military operations to help build capacity and partnerships with several East African countries.

The Djibouti Port is the last French-based port for French warships to resupply and visit on the way out to the Indian Ocean. The Dupleix is on a five-month deployment in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean supporting missions for Enduring Freedom and anti-piracy operations.