The Tanzanian People's Defence Force (TPDF) held a dedication November 23, 2010 to accept two 27-foot defender class boats at the Tanzanian Navy Base in Kigamboni, Tanzania.

The boats were presented by Rear Admiral Brian Losey, Commander Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, on behalf of the American people and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).

The dedication ceremony highlighted the continuing partnership between the U.S. and Tanzanian militaries.

"On behalf of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, TPDF, and also my personal behalf, I express my gratitude to the U.S. government for this important support," said General Davis Mwamunyange, TPDF Chief of Defense Force. "We strongly believe that it will help us to strengthen significantly the ability of our navy to implement its responsibilities in our coastal areas."

The defender boats will enhance the current capabilities of the Tanzanian naval forces with respect for the concerns of piracy and water invasion, said Tanzanian Navy Command Brigadier General Saidi Omari.

"Our common footing as mariners means we share common challenges at sea," Losey said. "It's those common challenges, our response, and common interest in security and stability that we interact closely and respond together as an international community."
One of the missions for the United States operating in Africa is to help build partner nation capacity in order to promote stability.

"We are committed to building partnership capacity as the TPDF wishes," Losey said. "Working with navy partners in a cooperate effort to enhance capabilities and capacities where appropriate, and between governments to share information, enables a collective response to criminal activities."

Mwamunyange concluded his remarks by stating, "The ceremony is a great sign of good relations between our country and our troops. It is our hope that this partnership will continue growing more successful in the future."

After the ceremony, attendees received a demonstration of the boats' capabilities.