In support of its Foreign Policy and to enhance ties and cooperation with countries on the west coast of Africa, the Brazilian Navy has once again participated in the GUINEX Operation. These annual, combined activities focus on the Gulf of Guinea, where navies from several American, African, and European nations gather to promote cooperation in key areas such as maritime security and anti-piracy efforts.
As in previous editions, the Brazilian Navy has deployed its surface assets, particularly the ocean patrol vessel “Apa,” which will make a series of visits to African countries, including Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Cape Verde, conducting a series of combined exercises and activities.
The Brazilian Navy stated, “The emphasis of the training is on approaching vessels suspected of criminal activities such as piracy; inspecting others with rapid ship maneuvers; transiting under asymmetric threats; and special operations techniques, with the aim of maintaining adequate preparation to combat illegal activities that may affect maritime security.”
Additionally, in the words of the Commander of the Apa, Frigate Captain Guilherme Santos, “The countries of the west coast of Africa, together with Brazil, play an important role on the international stage in maintaining stability, security, and prosperity in the Atlantic Ocean. Since 2021, joint efforts have improved the capacity to combat all types of threats to maritime security, especially piracy, illegal fishing, international drug trafficking, and other illicit activities.”
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