For his first official visit, the recently appointed Chief of Defence met the crew of the Belgian minehunter in order to express his support for the ongoing NATO deployment.

I wish fair winds and following seas to the Commanding Officer and the crew

After having been winched on board, he was able to witness a mine recovery exercise with the use of the sonar team combined with the divers and the deck team.

Admiral Hofman served as a commanding officer of the BNS Crocus 25 years ago, and this visit allowed him to be one more day at sea on board his old operational unit.

“A hint of nostalgia, but above all a great pleasure to come (back) on board of this beautiful ship”, said the Admiral, adding “thank you for the hospitality, I wish fair winds and following seas to the Commanding Officer and the crew”.