SNMG1 is led by Commodore A. van de Sande of the Royal Netherlands Navy.
"A port visit underlines the existing strong relationships with our allies," Sande said. "Interaction between armed forces in NATO enables us to maintain our readiness as a defensive alliance."
Currently, SNMG1 comprises flagship HNLMS De Zeven Provinciën (F802) (The Netherlands), HDMS Peter Willemoes (F362) (Denmark), FGS Erfurt (F262) (Germany) and HMS Northumberland (F238) (United Kingdom). During the Port Visit HMCS Halifax (FFH 330) (Canada) will join. SNMG1 is one of the four Standing NATO Maritime Groups, and part of NATO's Very High Readiness Joint Task Force.
Interaction between armed forces in NATO enables us to maintain our readiness as a defensive alliance.
"I am very pleased to welcome the SNMG1 teams in Tallinn. SNMG1's visit to Estonia is always welcome," Commander of the Estonian Navy Commodore Jüri Saska said. "This is particularly important in today's security situation, where our eastern neighbour has raised his arms against the freedom and independence of the Ukrainian people. A maritime presence on NATO's eastern border is the best example of speed, flexibility and NATO's determination to defend itself on land, at sea and in the air,"
Multinational interaction during exercises at sea increases interoperability among forces, increases shared knowledge of maritime tactics and promotes professionalism among sailors, cultural understanding, and trust. Port visits demonstrate the strong relationship between NATO nations while also providing an opportunity to replenish supplies.
Following the port visit, SNMG1 will interact with the Estonian Navy during exercises at sea.