By U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Rafael Martie
CJTF-HOA Public Affairs
CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti,
Members from the Japan Self Defense Forces’ Deployment Air Force for Counter-Piracy Enforcement unit met with U.S. service members assigned to Patrol Squadron 47 to share best practices of P-3 aircraft technology at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, July 30, 2013.
The P-3 is a four-engine turboprop aircraft used by both Japan and the United States for anti-submarine and maritime surveillance. The squadron assigned to Combined Task Force 150/151 out of Manama, Bahrain ‚Äî conducts counter-piracy operations and assists Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa’s maritime security operations in East Africa.
“American P-3 aircraft have advanced systems that help with surveillance over land and sea,” said Japanese Cmdr. Nobuhiko Morita, Chief of DAPE’s Flight Division. “This engagement is very productive and meaningful for us. Sharing knowledge with our American counterparts helps us better prepare to assist our allies in maritime security.”
The Japanese and Americans reviewed the P-3s computer avionics system, which provides flight information to the pilots. They shared also knowledge of the aircraft’s advanced submarine detection sensors.
“Hosting DAPE personnel allows us to better understand and compliment our mutual core maritime patrol capabilities,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Mark Zematis, the squadron’s officer in charge. “These events enhance our inoperability and work toward achieving mutual goals of maritime security, while building and strengthening our enduring relationships.”
CJTF-HOA’s mission includes stabilizing and strengthening security in East Africa through military-to-military engagements with partner nations.
Via: http://www.hoa.africom.mil/
