ONPARADE October 2014
www.afm.gov.mt
CONTENTS & EDITORIAL
MESSAGE 05 MINISTER’S 07 COMMANDER’S WORD UP 09 TEAMING TO DELIVER ART OF 15 THE FIGHTING TO MEET 17 INVESTING THE CHALLENGES
Cover photo: At your service from above. Photo by Bdr Justin Gatt.
Envisioning the future
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THE AFM BAND LIVES UP TO ITS DREAM
A stunning debut at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
AFM POSTER 22 PULL-OUT BIRD THE SKY 25 AINNEW TO 28 CLOSER YOU EASTERN 33 EUROPE’S FRONT YEAR 37 AON… APPROACHES 39 NORTHERN
CAPTURING THE ACTION Lieutenant Keith Caruana Editor / Public Information & Public Relations Officer HQ AFM
Maritime operations in Gozo
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SERVICE MEDALS WORN IN THE AFM
This publication is being distributed as part of the Times of Malta. Saturday, October 4, 2014.
Production Allied Newspapers Ltd Printing Progress Press Ltd Photography Official AFM photographer Bdr Justin Gatt, Sgt David Bugeja Assisting Staff Bartek Romanczuk, Gnr Francisco Mumford Advertising Sales Paula Bugeja, Lt Keith Caruana, Bartek Romanczuk. © 2014 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in the articles or advertisements are those of the author or advertiser and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of Malta or the Armed Forces of Malta.
Send your feedback to On Parade, HQ AFM, Luqa Barracks, VLT 2000 or via e-mail to hq.afm@gov.mt
e meet again for yet another edition of ‘On Parade’, Malta’s only military magazine. In the following pages, you shall find articles showcasing some aspects of the Armed Forces of Malta and I say ‘some’ for the simple reason that no magazine can adequately illustrate the vast amount of work carried out by our men and women in uniform. As Benjamin Franklin once said: “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing about.”
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Rain or shine, our soldiers do something worth writing about on a daily basis whilst the undersigned is left with the headache implied in the first task. The varied operations carried out by our personnel on land, at sea or in the air, not only merit the long hours my team and myself spend at the office to document such activities but also due recognition from the general public. After skimming through analytics and metrics from the back end of our social media platforms, one soon realizes that we made considerable inroads with our Facebook Page, doubling the amount of followers since our last issue. 2014 has seen the launch of the AFM’s Twitter account. Our YouTube Channel was enriched with several in-house productions tabbing over 117,000 hits since its inception. Of course Public Relations goes way beyond typing on keyboards and impersonal high tech retina displays. Relaying correct information in real time is one area we focus on whilst maintaining a presence on all traditional and new media platforms remains imperative. Throughout 2014, we have fielded new combat uniforms, inaugurated new assets/facilities, and contributed in several Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaigns but these are just parts of the multi-pronged approach adopted by our headquarters with the aim of improving your Armed Forces. The following pages will surely shed better light on what we have achieved in the past year and what you can expect to see in the 2015 edition. ★ ArmedForcesofMaltaAFM @Armed_Forces_MT
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HON. MINISTER’S MESSAGE Minister Dr Emmanuel Mallia Ministry for Home Affairs and National Security t is with pleasure that for the second time, I am writing this message for the ‘On Parade’ magazine. Since last year, we have together lived through many changes, not least amongst which was the appointment of a new commanding team for the Armed Forces. I would publicly like to thank and acknowledge the sterling work that is being done by Commander Jeffrey Curmi and Deputy Commander Mark Mallia since their appointment last year. A major change has been the recognition by this government of the human element involved in the Armed Forces. For the first time in our history, we have recognised the right of disciplined corps to be associated in unions, a right which will be implemented into a concrete reality in the coming months. This is no mean feat, and is a breakthrough reflecting the absolute trust we have placed in our men and women in uniform. We are continuing to invest in the training of our personnel, and in supporting participation in exercises and opeartions at an international level. It is with pride that I highlight the recent award to a number of Maltese officers and soldiers of the Dutch Commemorative Medal for Peace Operations with the clasp “EU Operations”, in recognition for their contribution to the EU mission in the Horn of Africa. This was the largest and longest deployment of AFM personnel on any EU Crisis Management Operation to date, where for four months, 21 soldiers formed part of the force on board the
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Netherlands Royal Vessel De Zeven Provincien. The Malta Special Duties Enhanced Boarding Team (MSDEBT) was cooperating in a counterpiracy operation in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Somalia, an area which has been plagued by this activity for years now. Before actually embarking, the team conducted specialised training with the Dutch military both here in Malta and in Holland. Training was also ongoing throughout the period spent onboard the vessel throughout the operation in order to maintain combat readiness. This training included boarding techniques, fast roping from helicopters, combat marksmanship, sniper training, first aid and life saving. Participation in such joint, and multi-national operations is beneficial for all partners. Our participation, albeit on a small scale, sends a clear message that Malta is joining its voice actively against piracy. Personnel from our armed forces also benefit from such activity as they bring back with them a stronger sense of purpose, besides having been subjected to more training in skills and equipment handling. Skilled men and women need the best of equipment in order to carry out their duties effectively and safely. Our air wing has recently been furnished with the first of two helicopters equipped with stateof-the-art night vision and rescue capabilities. No more will rescue personnel have to search for people in the water at night in rough seas, using hand-held torches, albeit with great courage and determination, but with great risk to themselves. The new hangar will also soon be officially inaugurated. The future holds a number of other challenges. Every summer brings with it higher levels of required vigialnce and activity, and now that we have come to the end of summer 2014, we need to focus on the planning for the Armed forces role in the meeting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) in 2015, the Presidency of the European Union in 2017, and Valletta as the European Capital of Culture in 2018. On the basis of the determination, professionalism and successes displayed in these past months, I look forward to the future and its challenges with optimism, knowing full well that the men and women in our Armed Forces will live up to the trust we continue to place in them, and make us all proud. ★ October 2014 | ON PARADE 05
COMMANDER’S WORD Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi Commander AFM was appointed Commander Armed Forces of Malta on 20th December 2013, meaning that I have only been in office for the last nine months. That being said, I strongly believe that we have already made significant and tangible progress. In accordance with our aim to develop the right military capabilities to fulfil our roles and responsibilities and be prepared for the uncertainties that surround us, my intention from day one was to build on past accomplishments whilst continuing to evolve in response to complex and ever-changing national and global realities. We had hence no time to waste and had to hit the ground running. Improving the operational capability, support functions, and ameliorate the level of equipment remain at the core of my priorities. We have immediately embarked on an exercise to review and amend where necessary the organisational structure of the Force, and although some changes have already been implemented, we are about to finalise the whole exercise which, once approved and published, should serve better today’s needs. In addition we have successfully managed to secure substantial amounts of EU funds which were invested in much needed equipment and infrastructure, such as the brand new AW139 helicopters, an upgrade to the microwave link, the construction of a rapid launching and ancillary facilities at our Maritime Squadron Base in Haywharf, as well as the refurbishment of the hangars and ancillary facilities at our Air Wing. From an operational perspective we are facing very tough and challenging times. The ever increasing phenomenon of irregular migration across the Mediterranean Sea is over-stretching our limited resources, and the unfortunate situations in certain countries around us are not helping at all. This is undoubtedly posing a mammoth challenge but one which our men and women have always faced with great courage, determination and willpower to succeed. I cannot here but take this opportunity to publicly express my gratitude for their bravery, which has, on many occasions, made our nation so proud of their services. Thousands of lives have been saved and we will leave no stone unturned to ensure that, along with the safety of our crews, this will remain the priority in such operations. We do however need to beef up the numbers in the human resources so that we could better meet any task without much difficulty, and I intend to do this in the coming months by recruiting a number of new members in the Force. These should address any shortcomings and render better effectiveness and efficiency. Once on the human resources topic, we are endeavouring to enhance the working conditions of our members as much as possible. We have already initiated a process to change the promotions system
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which should hopefully eliminate any ambiguities and possible subjectivity, and each member would be made to work his/her way up to reach higher ranks. We have, in addition, revised certain trade regulations and allowances, and have managed to successfully conclude agreements with recognised educational colleges which should provide a platform for our members to follow professional courses which should, apart from enhancing their skills within the Force, provide them also with a better opportunity to seek new pastures once discharged from the Force. We will also seek to introduce new familyfriendly measures which should provide a certain level of convenience to our members. These initiatives, amongst others, are only our first steps but should lay the groundwork for what lies ahead. It is the people in the organisation at all levels who will now need to make them work, but I have never questioned that. One of the Force’s strengths is no doubt the teamwork, and we have always created a model that ensures that the whole is more than the sum of its parts and which has affordability at its core. That is what is needed if we are to have an Armed Force that is effective and efficient in delivering its roles. We will strive to continue to be a model employer, both in terms of the conditions offered to its members as well as the career development opportunities that may be pursued. ★ October 2014 | ON PARADE 07
PROCUREMENT & LOGISTICS
Rapid Deployment Launching Facility proposed for the Maritime Squadron.
Colonel Pierre Vassallo AFM Procurement and Logistics Branch s a response to the fast changing needs of the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) and the substantial increase in the number of projects carried out in the last year, the Procurement and Logistics Branch morphed to offer a comprehensive one stop shop supporting the force’s operating units. These units have seen a significant surge in the demand for land, air and sea assets to cater for the many challenges brought about by increasing migration pressures and other new tasks entrusted to them. The procurement of these assets has meant that the AFM concurrently required establishing new supply chains and carrying out refurbishment works on existing structures and building new infrastructure to contain these assets. To adapt to the new business needs of the organisation, it was essential to have a multilateral technical approach and a more meticulous administrative outlook to cover all aspects of the several multi-million euro ventures concurrently ongoing. The main aim of the Procurement and Logistics Branch has changed and, apart from the traditional role of sustaining the operational capability of the force, now also incorporates maximising the use of EU funds to sustain border control operations in the best interest of Malta and the EU. In view of this, the Procurement and Logistics Branch has just recently integrated within its organisation the EU Projects and
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Teaming up to deliver ‘A little neglect may breed mischief: for want of a nail the shoe was lost; for want of a shoe the horse was lost; and for want of a horse the rider was lost’ – Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790). the Computer Information Systems sections to be able to deal in-house with all the aspects of all projects undertaken.
Procurement & Tendering – The Planning Component of the Branch The Procurement and Tendering staff at this Branch is certainly our planning effort as they move parallel to the organisation’s overall strategy ensuring the Armed Forces of Malta has all the tools and facilities required to implement that strategy. Foresight and long term planning is vital to determine where the organisation is heading and beforehand initiate the tendering process so the item or vision required is delivered in a timely and financially sound manner. This section, through its daily tasks, ensures the sustainability of current operations and the modernisation of equipment.
In fact, amongst other things, this year the Armed Forces of Malta saw the substituting all its Battle Dress Uniforms to a more suitable one considering the Maltese temperate climate and surrounding environment. The staff working in the Procurement and Tendering section of this branch is also currently working to meet the logistical requirements in view of the forthcoming commitments related to CHOGM in 2015 & The EU Presidency in 2017. Amongst others major procurement projects, the AFM shall be purchasing new Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) equipment, vehicles and new Internal Security kit.
EU Projects – The Predominant Funding The EU Projects section is undoubtedly the predominant funding force of this Branch ➔ October 2014 | ON PARADE 09
PROCUREMENT & LOGISTICS especially when one considers that it has administered in excess of 20 Million Euros in local and EU Funds this year, and next year, it shall be doing the same with an additional 15 Million Euros. This section is currently administering the procurement of the second twin engined helicopter after the first one was brought to Malta in June this year, the upgrade of the AFM Microwave Carrier Link Network Project, and the Design and Build of a state of the art Rapid Deployment Launching Facility at The Maritime Squadron Base. In this same base, this section also has to oversee the completion of the Fire Rated Fuel Farm project which implementation funds were secured through
Plans are designed and coordinated by the AFM architect in close collaboration with service providers.
The team at the Procurement and Logistics Branch, HQ AFM.
a Specific Action programme managed directly with the European Commission. Other approaching projects include the acquirement of two new light twin engined helicopters for short distance border patrols, the purchase of thermal/infra red imaging devices and the construction of an Administration Block for the new Gozo Maritime Base amongst others.
Lands and Defence Estate – The Building Arm of the Branch The Lands and Defence Estate section is the ‘building arm’ of the branch since it plans and executes the AFM’s vision and plans through its technical know-how in respect of infrastructural projects both EU and locally funded. It is AFM’s intent to make maximum use of
EU funds and national funds to construct new premises and refurbish existing property. One major project funded through local funds which is now approaching its completion is the refurbishment of Block 245 within Luqa Barracks. This building required major works since it was left to deteriorate for many years to the detriment of the existing structure and the soldiers operating inside it. This building houses the Finance Management Branch and the Defence Directorate amongst others and is now a completely refurbished office space with, new water and electrical installations, floor to ceiling gypsum plastering, new showering facilities and much more. The AFM has planned to modernize and refurbish its buildings and shall be spending almost one million euros to do so in the next four years.
As previously mentioned above, the AFM is now strongly investing in EU funded major infrastructural projects, partially financed through the European Borders Fund (EBF) and partially through National Funds. This section was instrumental in the construction of a Hangar 4 at Air Wing (AW) completed last year for the total cost of 2 Million Euros, and subsequently the implementation of another major project, the Refurbishment of Hangar 3 and Ancillary Facilities at Air Wing Base for a total cost of 2.4M Euro completed in June this year. As indicated earlier, two other infrastructural projects are currently being technically overseen by the team at the Lands and Defence Estate Section of the AFM Logistics Branch. These are the installation of fire rated underground Fuel Farm at Maritime Squadron base costing more than 1 Million Euro and the design and build of a Rapid Deployment Launching Facility at Maritime Squadron Base estimated at 4.2M Euros.
The Computer and Information Systems – Support through Cyberspace The CIS is a Supporting Force to this Branch and is primarily focused on analysing the current AFM, Communication and IT structures, business processes and information system to identify appropriate re-engineered solutions to meet present and future requirements. In order to sustain the increasing CIS demand of the AFM, the CIS Function within the AFM is currently undergoing a Business Renovation Strategy integrating a Continuous Process Improvement venture and ➔ October 2014 | ON PARADE 11
PROCUREMENT & LOGISTICS a Business Process Re-Engineering Project, with the aim to shape and align the AFM Information Systems and IT infrastructure in parallel to the AFM current needs and future strategy. Through focused digitization and an AFM tailored CIS infrastructure, the AFM will continue to improve overall performance and increase Business Continuity. One major project in this aspect is the Microwave Carrier Link project. With the assistance of the Italian Military Mission and the Italian Embassy in Malta, an AFM team visited Rome and Padova to carry out a review of the current evolvement in this aspect in the Italian Army and the Carabinieri, Subsequently the AFM issued three tenders for the implementation of this project that has to be completed by 2015.
Teamwork – The Hallmark of the Procurement and Logistics Branch Keeping such diverse, capable, determined and effective workforce toiling together in harmony is no easy task and teamwork is essential. In such a stressful working environment where deadlines are habitual and certainly challenging, teamwork becomes even more compulsory.
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Building a team might seem a daunting task in today’s society where everyone is indoctrinated from childbirth to individually come out on top, but, it can be achieved by simply following a simple citation by Norman Shidle that ‘A group becomes a team when each member is sure enough of himself and his contribution to praise the skills of the others.’ Teamwork has become the hallmark of this branch. Without it we would not have realized all the above within such a short time frame. Without hesitation I can state that all that we achieved so far would not have been possible without the selfless contribution of all the men and woman that are the AFM’s Procurement and Logistics Branch. One must also not forget to mention and salute the
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sterling assistance given by other institutions within and outside of the AFM which have a vital role in the execution of our day to day business. ★
SPORTS CORNER
The art of
FIGHTING he Armed Forces of Malta offers a myriad of opportunities for its personnel and keeping fit is at the core of any armed force. If you happen to pass by the AFM HQ in Luqa Barracks early in the morning, you will definitely come across a number of soldiers wearing the traditional blue shorts and olive green vest jogging along the AFM HQ and the vicinities. The AFM gives a lot of emphasis on the well being of their personnel – many of whom joined the army for the pride and courage that is portrayed and the possibility the army gives you to keep fit every day. Let’s face it very few employers pay you to stay fit and provide you the possibility of a healthy wake up routine every morning. The morning hour dedicated for fitness is bare minimum and some highly admirable soldiers take this obligation to another level. At first glance, Gunner Charlo Spiteri looks like any other soldier at the Armed Forces of Malta but hidden beneath his modest shoulders and combat uniform lies a secret. He is an international martial arts champion. He represented our country in a worldwide competition in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), held by WTKA in Italy and was awarded with a Silver medal. This competition was spread over four days with over 4,000 athletes from 80 countries participating. Charlo took part in a category which consisted of four rounds of 4 minutes each. Spiteri won the first two bouts taking the majority of the points; he showed that he was more capable than his opponents in sparring as well as groundwork techniques. During the third fight he used a chock submission on his opponent and submitted him, in less than a minute! During the final round, Charlo, as well as his opponent, showed that they had very good techniques and physical strength however in the end Charlo’s opponent won the final round. Gunner Spiteri is very passionate about this sport with over 13 years of experience in this type of training. He is now passing on the buck,
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“THE ART OF FIGHTING ALSO IMMERSES THE SOLDIER WITH THE CONFIDENCE NEEDED TO CONFRONT ADVERSE SITUATIONS, BE IT A TIGHT DEADLINE AT THE OFFICE OR CALM AND RESTRAINT REQUIRED DURING RIOT CONTROL TRAINING”
using his knowledge and skills and dedicating his time to train others. He has a 1st Dan black belt in traditional Jiu-Jitsu as well as a green
belt in kickboxing. He also has training experience overseas in UK with the Roger Gracie Academy and is qualified with a blue belt. Martial arts are not only taught at the AFM as part of the soldiers’ requirement to defend and attack should the need arise but it offers the spiritual underpinning every soldier should possess. The equilibrium of values such as aggressiveness, discipline and respect are a few to mention. The art of fighting also immerses the soldier with the confidence needed to confront adverse situations, be it a tight deadline at the office or calm and restraint required during riot control training. To maintain his level, gunner Spiteri trains for hours every day in his own private club where he trains and instructs several other disciplines including MMA, Jiu-Jitsu, NoGi, self defense as well as intensive physical training. Charlo is just one of many dedicated soldiers who practice various sports at such levels both on a national and international level. The AFM as an organisation, is a firm believer in sports and is actively involved in several sports initiatives. ★ October 2014 | ON PARADE 15
EU PROJECTS
INVESTING
TO MEET THE CHALLENGES Envisioning the Future The rise in migration pressures and the new challenges brought about by the European Union membership have created a new reality that required solid investment. EU funds made yesterday’s impossible scenarios a concrete possibility of today and tomorrow. Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Attard Staff Officer I – EU Projects Logistics & Procurement Branch t is in the best interest of all the countries forming part of the Schengen Area to invest and upgrade their assets and infrastructure to ensure better protection of the EU’s external borders. For Malta, being the
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guardian of the EU’s Southern most border, this is a must. Since 2007, the Armed Forces of Malta, through its Procurement and Logistics Branch, started to tap European Union (EU) funds to finance projects and upgrade its infrastructure, modernize its barracks and procure new assets and equipment to
fulfil its duties and better meet new challenges brought about by its full membership in the EU. The projects completed so far by the Armed Forces of Malta were mainly funded through the External Border Fund (EBF 20072013) through a co-financing mechanism composed of a relatively large EU portion and a smaller locally funded portion. This fund provides the financial support required to assist EU Member States in responding to the significant migratory pressure faced at their borders. The EBF is utilized by each country, through a shared management system, where the funds are allocated according to the county’s national annual programmes, on the basis of the multi-annual programme, covering an extensive number of years; usually five to seven years. These programmes are set, executed, monitored and audited in partnership with other designated authorities and bodies. Another funding system through which Malta benefited in the last years was the EBF Specific Action annual programme were the EU commission directly addresses weaknesses at strategic points at
the external borders, identified on the basis of a risk analyses carried out by FRONTEX. Amongst the many projects completed, the main endeavours were the AFM Integrated Communications System (ICS) Project, the procurement of four new inshore patrol boats for the Maritime Squadron and the acquisition of two Maritime Patrol Aircraft four years ago, a twin engine helicopter this year and the construction of two state of the art fire proof aircraft hangars for the new assets held by Air Wing which were completed in June 2012 and June 2014. The fund which enabled the Armed Forces of Malta tap almost 50 Million Euro in EU funds, for projects implemented between 2007 and 2013, has now reached its end with the last three major projects currently ongoing that the AFM have to be complete by the end of 2015. Following the reorganisation of the Armed Forces of Malta and the inclusion of an EU projects sections within the Procurement and Logistics Branch last year, the AFM was in a position to apply for and secure the funding for another three major EBF projects simultaneously costing over 15 Million Euro in all. ➔
“EU FUNDS MADE YESTERDAY’S IMPOSSIBLE SCENARIOS A CONCRETE POSSIBILITY OF TODAY AND TOMORROW”
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EU PROJECTS
New administration block at Air Wing base.
These projects are: • The procurement of a second twin engine helicopter. • The upgrading of AFM Microwave Carrier Link Network of the Armed Forces of Malta. • The design and build of a rapid deployment launching facility and ancillary amnesties at Maritime Squadron Base, Haywharf, Armed Forces of Malta. Also currently ongoing from the EBF Specific Action programme, the AFM is currently in the advance stages of constructing a new fire rated Fuel Farm, being the latest upgrade of the Support Facilities at the Maritime Squadron Base. This project means a further in18 ON PARADE | October 2014
vestment in excess of 1 Million euro in infrastructure for the Armed Forces of Malta. The Armed Forces of Malta will still continue to benefit of the external borders guarding related EU funds in the future. The External Border Fund that now has become a funding instrument within the Internal Security Fund (ISF Borders) will comprise a multiannual programme ranging from 2014 till 2020. The Armed Forces of Malta has already devised the wider plan for this programme listing around twenty projects amounting to approximately 64 million Euros of EU Funding (if all twenty projects are implemented)
not including the locally funded portion. These, however will be implemented according to the allocations received and priorities of the organisation within the overall national priority set by the Ministry of Home Affairs and National Security. The procurement of two light twin engine helicopters for shorter distances border control, the procurement of high definition sophisticated surveillance thermal/infra-red imaging devices for the coastal bases and patrol boats, the upgrade/reengining of the Offshore Patrol Vessel P61 and the construction of an administration block comprising accommodation, storage
and quay facilities at the new Gozo Maritime Base are just a few projects in the planning pipeline for the near future. With regards to the Specific Action programme the vision is to procure a new bigger mother ship for the Maritime Squadron. Behind every project there is the input of many people, and managing the execution whilst keeping abreast with all the administrative requirements that EU projects require can become a nightmare if the team assigned does not work in unison to achieve specific, measurable, achievable and time-bound objectives. The designated Project Leader has to dedicate himself to achieve these objectives. This however is not possible without the daily assistance of the appointed project team, the guidance of the Responsible Authority (RA) and the continuous backup of the Logistics Branch. If these three don’t work in harmony, achieving the desired quality whilst respecting all the administrative requirements, keeping the project within the budget and meeting the tight deadlines set by the EU becomes nearly impossible. The Armed Forces of Malta intends to keep tapping as much EU funds as possible however this has to be done in parallel with a sustainability strategy especially with regards to the introduction of new assets in the force. Following the procurement every new asset needs to be maintained fully functional and serviced accordingly and this comes at a considerable financial and human resources cost which need to be factored in the planning stage of every project. EU funds made yesterday’s impossible scenarios a concrete possibility of today and tomorrow. Nowadays it is no longer permitted to adopt a laid back stance and ‘fighting fires’ when they occur, the approach needs to be proactive and dynamic, envisioning possible scenarios and planning the future accordingly. ★
EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO
The AFM Band lives up to its dream A stunning debut at the prestigious Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. new chapter has been written in the history of the Armed Forces of Malta Band. 2014 was a year full of work, dedication and responsibility. For the past fourteen years, the AFM band has performed in various tattoos in several countries including five times in Germany, twice in Italy as well performances in Russia, Belgium and Libya, but every band’s dream is definitely that of performing in the military’s equivalent of the ‘top of the pops’, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This Military Tattoo is an annual series of Military tattoos performed by British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and International military bands and display teams on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in the Scottish capital. The event takes place annually
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Warrant Officer I Jonathan Borg Band Master
throughout August as part of the wider Edinburgh Festival (a collective name for many independent festivals and events held in Edinburgh during August). The word “TATTOO,” is derived from “Doe den tap toe”, or just “tap toe” with “toe” pronounced as “too” – meaning ‘last orders’ in Dutch. The literal translation of this phrase says “close the (beer) tap”. The term “Taptoe” was first encountered by the British Army when stationed in the Flanders during the War of the Austrian Succession. The term was commonly heard from innkeepers as local regiments were effectively marched out
of the bar and told to return to their barracks. Over time, this march became a kind of ritual display, and it is here that the Tattoo in Edinburgh has its roots. The British adopted the practice and it became a signal, played by a regiment’s Corps of Drums or Pipes and Drums each night to tavern owners to turn off the taps of their ale kegs so that soldiers would retire to their billeted lodgings at a reasonable hour. With the establishment of modern barracks and full Military bands later in the 18th century, the term Tattoo was used to describe not only the last duty call of the day, but also a ceremonial form of evening entertainment performed by Military musicians. Although the first Tattoo in Edinburgh, entitled “Something about a Soldier”, took
place at the Ross Bandstand at Princes Street Gardens in 1949, the first official Edinburgh Military Tattoo began in 1950 with just eight items in the programme. It drew some 6000 spectators seated in simple bench and scaffold structures around the north, south and east sides of the Edinburgh Castle esplanade. In 1952, the capacity of the stands was increased to accommodate a nightly audience of 7700, allowing 160,000 to watch live performances each year. Now, on average, just over 217,000 people see the Tattoo live each year, and it has sold out in advance for the last decade. 30% of the audience are from Scotland and 35% from the rest of the United Kingdom. The remaining 35% of the audience consists of 70,000 visitors from around the world. The Tattoo is performed every weekday evening and twice on Saturdays throughout August and it has never been cancelled due to inclement weather. The second Saturday night performance includes a Fireworks display, although each performance uses Pyrotechnics and since 2005 has also
Major John Ivan Borg, Director of Music AFM.
“THE TATTOO WAS AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE MALTA AND IS TELEVISED IN 30 COUNTRIES AND VIEWED BY OVER 100 MILLION PEOPLE WORLDWIDE”
The AFM Band during their display in front of the Edinburgh Castle. Photo by Gilbert Camilleri.
incorporated a Son et lumière element projected onto the facade of the Castle. This year’s opening proceedings were specially commissioned fanfare composed by Michael McDermott, created to celebrate the Year of Homecoming, entitled Ready to Go! It was performed at the start of each performance by one of the largest fanfare ensemble ever gathered for the Tattoo. Under the direction of Major John Ivan Borg and Drum Major Warrant Officer I Martin Vella, our six minute interpretation of Ruben Zahra’s Ħallel, was performed flawlessly on
every occasion forming the Knight’s eightpointed Cross and the George Cross while marching. To top this up, the Ellipsis Dancers, a group of Maltese dancers, teamed up with the band during these performances to give that extra hint of Maltese flavour to the performance. This was mainly achieved by wearing costumes flamboyantly showing the Maltese eight pointed cross. The band marched off with “The Blue Bells of Scotland” march, accompanied by an ensemble of fanfare trumpets from the HM Royal Marines Band. During the AFM Band’s visit to Scotland,
the band joined thousand’s of Scots on August 10th, when Scotland came together to remember the thousands of Scots who fought and fell during the First World War. The Drumhead service in Edinburgh Castle marked the beginning of Scotland’s remembrance of the centenary of the Great War. During one of the shows of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, to mark the same occasion, the lights turned out and 10,000 candles framed the Edinburgh Castle as we paused to reflect the centenary of the start of the Great War. The idea behind the AFM’s participation was to pay tribute to the Maltese people who suffered and died during the Second World War. It’s interesting to know that, the idea, to include this march, came up after composer Michael McDermott was present during one of the band’s shows. The programme then embarked to a “journey” around the world, taking all those present to an imaginary visit to several Commonwealth Nations. Apart from the daily show, the band participated in the so called, “taste of the tattoo”, where all bands marched and performed the actual display that was prepared for the Edinburgh Tattoo. These “taste of the tattoo” were held in Glasgow, Sterling and Dundee. The Band together with the Ellipsis dancers performed for the Lord Provost of Edinburgh and even for those who where visiting the HMY Britannia. The Tattoo was an excellent opportunity to showcase Malta and is televised in 30 countries and viewed by over 100 million people worldwide. Further to this, the Tattoo is run for charitable causes and over the years has contributed over £5 million to military and civilian charities and organisations, such as the Army Benevolent Fund. ★ October 2014 | ON PARADE 21
ONPARADE October 2014
www.afm.gov.mt
AIR OPERATIONS
A new bird in the sky Colonel Claudio Spiteri Operations, Plans and Intelligence Branch he latest addition to the Armed Forces of Malta’s Air Wing fleet is a new kind of beast. To look at it, it almost seems like a child’s rendition of what a cartoon helicopter looks like. From the rather long and bulging nose, a boxy fuselage, all the way to the tail rotor at an odd angle, the new AgustaWestland AW139 is a slightly odd-looking bird to those who seek sleek lines. However, just as in nature, the design of such a marvel serves a purpose. The AgustaWestland AW139 bristles with technology and state of the art equipment installed specifically by the manufacturer in order to conduct border control operations and SAR missions both on land and far out at sea. Every single component helps in making this medium sized helicopter not only the best in its class, but also rival to much larger types with its capabilities. Designed initially as a conventional twin-engine multirole helicopter, it was quickly ➔
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AIR OPERATIONS realised that the design was capable of so much more. The mounting of the two large Pratt and Whitney PT-6C engines high on the fuselage created enough cabin space for 15 seats in the large cabin. Those same engines, each producing a whopping 1,500 horsepower, each push the helicopter to a level top speed of close to 200 miles an hour – very fast for any helicopter design. The large nose houses not only a weather and search radar, but some of the most advanced flight guidance avionics and systems ever fitted to an aircraft. The cockpit bristles with technology, from the flat panel glass displays to the chunky control cyclic and collective levers that allow the pilots to control
have space for medical equipment and the personnel to attend to those casualties. The sponsons at the side of the cabin house the aircraft’s retractable under carriage, emergency floatation equipment should the aircraft ever have to land in the sea, and enough survival gear for all of the passengers and crew. A true multi-engine, multi-role, all weather helicopter, the AW139 is light years ahead of the Alouette III helicopter it joins at the Air Wing. As such, all of the unit’s helicopter pilots have been trough AgustaWestland’s training facilities in Milan, Italy where they did ground school on the aircraft’s complex systems, trained in a full motion simulator, and then moved onto the actual aircraft itself. One Air
hours to remain operational. In aviation, the procurement of an aircraft, work intensive as it may be, is the easy part. Aircraft, unlike cars, have many components that must be logged, tracked, and regularly serviced or replaced in order to remain safe for flight. Logistically, this poses knew challenges to a unit when taking a new aircraft type on strength. Maintenance and operational procedures have to be developed, tested, and applied. At the Air Wing’s base in Malta International Airport, refurbishment of the unit’s old Royal Air Force inherited hangar is in full swing in order to house the AW139 and its sibling, which is scheduled to be delivered by the end of the year. New technical offices, aircraft
not only the helicopter itself, but also its numerous systems without ever having to take their hands off the controls. The amount of system and situational awareness that these instruments provide is purely unrivaled. Co-financed with the help of the EU External Borders Fund, the AW139 will take up the gauntlet in the medium-range sea patrol and air rescue mission. And this is where its true forte lies. Inside the cabin, an advanced operators console controls the aircraft’s Forward Looking Infra-Red (FLIR) turret fitted under the aircraft. This system coupled with the aircraft’s radar, allows the crew to see not only from long distances, but also at night and in poor visibility. For targets close to the aircraft, a very powerful moveable search light ensures that the crew can get a good look in the dark. The AW139 is capable of much more though. The aircraft is fitted with a large rescue winch to enable the aircraft to carry out rescues far out to sea. Should the need arise, the cabin can take 3 casualty litters and still
Wing helicopter instructor pilot describes the transition from the Alouette III to the AW139 like going from an old-fashioned typewriter to using a modern computer to write a letter. Both get the job done, but there’s some much more you can do. With a typewriter, you can only type a letter. With a computer, you can type a letter and do another myriad of things. The same applies to the AW139. For the crews of the aircraft, it’s a continual learning process. As the aircraft’s operational capabilities are explored and tested, the flight crews must take what they learned during their training phase and apply it safely to missions scenarios they face locally. Even the Air Wing’s technical personnel have had to undergo training on the proper care and feeding of this new beast. With its advanced systems, use of modern composite materials, titanium rotor hub construction, just to name a few, the AW139 needs special attention compared to older helicopters, but overall it requires much fewer maintenance
part storage facilities, life support equipment testing facilities, and electronics work shops have also been constructed as part of the unit’s facilities re-build. After the unit’s inception in 1972, the AgustaWestland AW139 finally gives the Armed Forces of Malta a fully independent, and above all efficient, offshore observation and rescue capability. The AW139 bridges the gap between the Alouette III helicopter’s close range rescue capability and the King Air’s long-range patrol capability. It’s this capability that will keep the Armed Forces of Malta in the forefront when it comes to over water observation, border surveillance and search and rescue missions in the centre of the Mediterranean sea. ★
26 ON PARADE | October 2014
Colonel Claudio Spiteri, AFM is the project leader of the new AW139 helicopter acquisition for the Armed Forces of Malta under the EU’s General Programme Solidarity & Management of Migration Flows 2007-2013.
CIVIL MILITARY COOPERATION
Closer to you Major Edric Zahra Staff Officer 2 – Civil Military Cooperation was indirectly told that my life will change upon entry into my new office and being handed the role of what is designated within the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) as C.I.M.I.C.: Civil Military Cooperation – it was true. Almost a year passed since then and nobody could have actually primed me for the tempo such a role brings to one’s life; a role that has seen me relentlessly planning and consequently executing a gust of ceremonial commitments, visits, events and sports activities. All this alongside the Armed Forces of Malta Garrison Sergeant Major Warrant Officer 1 Roger Mulvaney – a seasoned soldier with over twen-
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28 ON PARADE | October 2014
ty-five years of service in the AFM. As the military designation implies, the core responsibilities of C.I.M.I.C. lay in the coordination, with the various civilian authorities’, of official functions and events to which formal guests are
idential Oath of Office and last but not least, Wreath Laying Ceremonies at various War Monuments around our islands all fall under C.I.M.I.C.’s responsibilities. Further to the ceremonial responsibilities mentioned above,
“SCHEDULING SUCH ACTIVITIES MUST BE VERY DETAILED TO SAY THE LEAST AND STARTS MONTHS BEFORE” invited or which may be open to public. Events such as State and Official Visits, National feasts; such as 31 March, 21 September and Republic Day (just to name a few), Remembrance Day, Foreign Ambassador’s credential presentations at the President’s Palace, Military and State Funerals, Pres-
C.I.M.I.C. is also responsible for the coordination of the various visits made to the AFM raging from school visits to high official delegation visits. On average, the AFM had more than 40 visits between December 2013 and August 2014. Add sports activities, charitable events, public events, leasing
of AFM assets and you are in for a busy day at the office. All these activities invariably require careful preparation and direction, bearing in mind their national significance of course and not to mention the scale of VIPs who, as a rule, attend. Given that the AFM plays a very big role when it comes to military support for such events, our effort is always on founding a complete procedure that has the means to stand the most thorough and effectual result. Scheduling such activities must be very detailed to say the least and starts months before, as does the training of the members of the Force in the appropriate drills, which is where the Garrison Sergeant Major comes in. He is the main force behind the outline procedures for the various formations of any Guard of Honour. His job, once we have discussed the outline procedure and determined the
CIVIL MILITARY COOPERATION type of ceremonial Guard required, is to design and produce the correct drill to be executed with dignity, style and steadiness by the men forming up such a Guard. To do so, my brief has broadened considerably into one which sees me working non-stop towards the improvement of the joint effort between the AFM, the Malta Police Force and other civilian organizations. It consists of critical negotiations and dialogues, not to mention dynamic interaction, between the many civilian and military ‘players’ to reach one common goal. On a personal note, I must add that one major achievement as CIMIC this year was in effect a major event that saw the Armed Forces of Malta Band taking part in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time ever; an ambition that was set by my predecessors. The organizational aspect of this occasion was enormous and getting it off the ground from a simple ‘plan on paper’ required all my determination, commitment and patience to see it thrive. Needless to say, the end results paid off as the 45 AFM Bandsmen, under the baton of Major John Ivan Borg, together with the eight dancers from Elipsis Dance Company, gave an impeccable daily show in front of a crowd of some 9,500 spectators for 23 consecutive days. The Maltese Cross was projected onto the walls of the Edinburgh Castle during their performances, was televised on several stations and watched by more than a billion people worldwide. Another major accomplishment CIMIC achieved, and one that I can proudly boast with, is that we have instituted the Presentation of the new Colours to the AFM, a ceremony that took place at the Luqa Barracks on the 3rd October 2014 during the AFM Day. The AFM Colours, which were first presented during a solemn parade on St George’s Square way ➔ October 2014 | ON PARADE 29
CIVIL MILITARY COOPERATION
back on June 23rd, 1988, are finally being laid to rest, and a brand new set of Stands have been commissioned to take their place after over 26 years of service. This took several months of careful planning, designing and negotiations with the AFM’s top brass. Suffice to say, the men of our Force will march proudly alongside these new Colours for another 26 years. A lot of events are yet in the offing and to rest on one’s laurels on past achievements where CIMIC duties is concerned would be to court mischance in itself. Yet, I look towards these impending occasions with a daring eye and the fact that my main objective is to showcase the AFM’s high standards of training, particularly in Ceremonial duties, which appropriately depict the pride derived from the hard work and dedication the Maltese soldiers put into their work in all their fields of responsibility, be it in on land, air or at 30 ON PARADE | October 2014
sea. Seeing this, my courage is, to say the least, amplified. If it was not for the constant support and confidence of my su-
periors and colleagues, I would not have managed to achieve the results and triumph a change, if I dare say, in our subordinates, by looking
with a positive eye and pride towards such commitments which most often fall over and above each individual main duties. ★
OVERSEAS DEPLOYMENT
EUROPE’S EASTERN FRONT Lieutenant Matthew Agius Platoon Commander C ‘SD’ Company oint Operation Poseidon Land (JO POSLAND) was setup by Frontex to monitor and control illegal migration along Eastern Europe’s external borders. Frontex was established by EU council regulation (EC no 2007/2005 of 26 Oct 04.) to facilitate the abolishment of internal Border control points within the EU Member states (MS)which require a high and uniform level of control at EU external borders. JO POSLAND is a relatively low risk operation, thus it is the ideal deployment for young, keen and enthusiastic soldiers to gain operational experience such as: working in a foreign country; working alongside other forces; culture difference and having to work and live as a team for the deployment period. JO POSLAND has the ideal set-up for young trained soldiers to implement their taught skills and look forward to further deployments that the AFM embarks on from time to time.
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The land border between Bulgaria and Turkey.
Greece. A change in the border infrastructure shifted the migratory routes to Bulgaria, and hence Frontex requested to move its mission to the Bulgarian – Turkish border. The first deployment (by the AFM) in Bulgaria was in July 2013, whilst so far this year alone, a total of 6 teams composed of personnel from all Companies within the 1 Regiment have been deployed.
Mission specific training
Deployments so far Between 2007 and 2012, the C (SD) Company from the 1 Regiment AFM, had deployed a total of 300 personnel on JO POSLAND in
AFM soldiers during their routine border control duties.
Operations vary from one another, thus mission specific training is carried out prior to deployment. The goal during mission specific training is to refresh the soldiering skills of deployed personnel whilst fine-tuning their mind-set in order to implement their skills in line with the Operational Plan. When it comes to JO POSLAND, deployed personnel undergo training on Weapon Handling; Patrolling Techniques; Observation Posts; Use of technical equipment (Thermal Imager, Night Vision); Reporting; International Humanitarian Law; First Aid; Un-Armed Combat and Arresting techniques.
Co-ordinating and conducting the Training
One of the guard posts overlooking common border crossing routes.
AFM contingent with other military and police officers participating in the operation.
Having been deployed as a team leader in Bulgaria between July and August 2013, I was entrusted to conduct the Mission Specific training for the teams deploying in 2014. A total of eight teams were trained; six for confirmed deployments and two teams in reserve. The three-week training was conducted in Malta and based on scenarios I had encountered whilst deployed in Bulgaria. ➔ October 2014 | ON PARADE 33
OVERSEAS DEPLOYMENT
2014 deployment Leading the 2nd team to deploy in 2014, we departed from Malta on 17th June, satisfied that throughout the pre-deployment training the team cohesion had reached a satisfactory level. Team 2 was composed of 3 personnel from C (SD) Company, 1 person from B Company and 1 person from ADFS Company. Albeit from different companies and with different skill levels, during the training period, the standards required for the operation were reached and thus the team had the necessary confidence in each other. The ties and bonds created with foreign forces throughout the deployment are of vital importance, thus one must ensure a healthy friendship both whilst on duty and off duty. Above all, one must not forget that whilst abroad, a soldier of the force is also a proud ambassador of the AFM and of the Republic of Malta. For this year’s deployment, teams had the newly acquired FLIR B9 Thermal Imager at their disposition that was co-financed by the
EU External Borders Fund. With the enhancement of this technical equipment, the Maltese teams were able to set-up Observation Posts on vantage points, locate an objective and deploy to the target area of interest. This boosted both the capability and morale of the team as we were in a position to operate with more flexibility than other foreign teams deployed.
For the duration of the deployment, Junior Officers got the opportunity to lead a team overseas. Dealing with the same five individuals for the whole duration of the deployment enables one to easily identify the strengths and weaknesses of the individuals deployed with-in the team, and hence enables one to formulate recommendations on whether individuals are to be deployed on different types of operations (such as EUNAVFOR SOMALIA off the coast of Somalia). The team members deployed together considered both 2013 and 2014 deployments in Bulgaria as successful. On both occasions we had the opportunity to apply the skills learned whilst working cohesively with other forces. JO POSLAND remains a great opportunity for young soldiers to deploy and acquire their first experience abroad, away from the comforts of home; facing the challenges of working with other foreign teams and proudly flying the Maltese flag on another EU Led mission. ★
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A YEAR ON… • March for Puttinu Last January, the Armed Forces of Malta C Special Duties Company (1 Regiment) together with the AFM Public Information cell organized a 15km march and swim march in aid of Puttinu Cares. The soldiers and officers were proud to announce that €21,967.62 were collected during the four-week ‘March for Puttinu’ Campaign. Soldiers marched through the major towns with a 20kg Bergen on their back and thanks to the support from the business community as well as members of the public this initiative was a great success.
• 3 Regiment goes Green 500 Trees were planted at the third regiment’s Safi Barracks. The trees were donated by BOV and will continue to embellish the already well-kept site by the AFM personnel. This same area is accessible to the general public on various open days held by the AFM and will offer a backdrop for future visits but and will further enhance the location for more than two hundred people who work within these quarters. This is one of many green initiatives carried out by the AFM throughout the year.
• A Company blood donation Sixteen soldiers serving at A Company decided to go beyond their call of duty last February and donated blood to those in need. Being close the Valentine’s Day, instead of spending time buying chocolates and roses for their loved ones, these soldiers reported at the national Blood Bank in their ‘off day’ to give the much needed blood temporarily alleviating the blood bank. A Company soldiers are responsible for airport security and fall under the 1st Regiment of the AFM. S/Sgt Sharon Cuschieri together with Major Darren Micallef spearheaded this small yet genuine social responsibility campaign. This is just one of several initiatives organized by the AFM were the blood donation mobile unit is frequently hosted at different barracks.
➔ EUNAVFOR Atalanta The AFM’s Special Duties Enhanced Boarding Team (SDEBT) consisting of three Officers and nineteen other ranks returned to Malta on Wednesday 27th August, on board the Dutch Naval vessel HNLMS De Zeven Provincien. This was the longest deployment off the coast of Somalia for AFM soldiers so far. The relatives of the deployed personnel were eagerly waiting at the Grand Harbour to greet the their loved ones and were invited for the awarding of the Dutch Medal for Peacekeeping Activities to all soldiers involved. The medal ceremony was held under the patronage of H.E. the Dutch Ambassador Drs Rita Dulci Rahman, Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi and the Dutch Chief of Defence, General Tom Middendrop who took the opportunity to speak to the soldiers individually and share their experiences.
• AFM on Twitter The AFM Public Information cell spearheaded by Lieutenant Keith Caruana launched the official Armed Forces of Malta Twitter account. This initiative is part of a multifaceted marketing campaign to attract end users to the Force. Apart from being effective in the recruitment sector, our account on twitter helps inform the general public and members of the media on AFM operations and initiatives in real time.
• FRONTEX Greece The Maritime Squadron has continued to support FRONTEX Joint Operations in the Aegean Sea during the course of 2014. Following deployments in 2011 and 2013, this year again saw the deployment of a Boomeranger Class Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) to the island of Lesvos to support the border-control activities of the Hellenic Coastguard (HCG). The boat is supported by a rotating detachment of 8 Maritime Squadron personnel who operate around the clock to provide a mixture of routine patrolling and rapid-response capabilities. Although originally intended to last for two months, the deployment has been extended for a further month on the specific request of the HCG and FRONTEX. The Maltese team has been involved in a number of incidents that have resulted in the interception or rescue of persons attempting to cross to Greek territory from the nearby Turkish coast. All operations are conducted in accordance with national, FRONTEX and international legal requirements and coordinated by the International Coordination Centre based in Athens.
October 2014 | ON PARADE 37
MARITIME SQUADRON
NORTHERN APPROACHES Maritime Operations in Gozo
n May 2011, the Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta took a significant step forward. The Squadron, which had attained Unit status in 2007, absorbed into its ranks all AFM personnel stationed in Gozo. Although, up until that time, AFM strength in Gozo consisted purely of land forces, the move from 1st Regiment to Maritime Squadron reflected the intention to establish a maritime capability in the smaller island. A significant level of maritime activity occurs around the island of Gozo. To the north are the busy shipping lanes of the Malta Channel where hundreds of vessels can be observed transiting every day while plying the routes between Gibraltar and Suez. One can also find numerous rich fishing grounds which are of great importance especially to local artisanal fisheries. Gozo also represents a popular maritime destination with many recreational beaches and diving sites around the island. What may be less obvious is that many of the important beaches, diving sites and fishery areas around Malta are, in fact, significantly closer to the port of Mgarr in Gozo than to the Maritime Squadron’s main base at Haywharf in Marsamxetto Harbour.
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Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Mallia Commanding Officer – Maritime Squadron This reality prompted the AFM to begin considering the idea of stationing one or more small craft in Gozo to improve reaction times and provide better operational coverage in the northern part of the Maltese Archipelago. As a result, in May 2011 the Bremse class Inshore Patrol Boat P32 was forward-based in Mgarr. The craft was crewed by a mixture of Gozitan personnel and Maltese soldiers in
“THE ESTABLISHMENT OF GOZO COMMAND MARITIME COMPONENT REPRESENTS THE RECOGNITION OF THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NORTHERN APPROACHES TO OUR ISLANDS”
order to ensure that all the required expertise was available and quickly became a familiar sight in the local waters. Shore support facilities were, due to space constraints within the point, kept to a bare minimum and much of the routine maintenance work continued to be conducted at the facilities in Malta. It was clear from the outset that P32 could only ever represent an interim solution given the fact that the craft was old, of limited operational utility and too large to comfortably operate in certain restricted areas such as the Blue Lagoon and Mgarr ix-Xini. Planning thus began to assign more modern and capable craft to what was now known as the Maritime Component of Gozo Command. Consideration was given to ensuring that the capabilities provided were relevant, sustainable and represented the best that Maritime Squadron had to offer. Part of the solution came with the 2013 delivery of two Defender Class Inshore Patrol Boats which were fully-funded by the US Government. These fast, powerful and seaworthy craft represented an ideal fit for many of the operational challenges faced by G Command and the decision was taken that one of these craft, P06, would be assigned to Gozo and that G Command personnel ➔
October 2014 | ON PARADE 39
MARITIME SQUADRON would receive the full training package delivered by US instructors. To further enhance the day/night all-weather SAR coverage offered by the Mgarr detachment, G Command was also assigned one of the newly-refurbished Melita Class SAR launches. Together these two craft, although of limited dimensions, provide a significant capability in a wide variety of operational scenarios including maritime law enforcement, fisheries protection and Search and Rescue. The results have demonstrated the utility of having maritime assets based in the north. The Gozo Command Maritime Detachment has been involved in numerous operations in the bays and inlets and around the northern coast of the Maltese Islands as well as further out to sea. Many of these operations have seen one of the Gozo Command assets operating independently as tasked by AFM Operations Centre. Others have seen a close and fruitful cooperation with AFM craft operating out of Haywharf and have included significant fisheries protection operations that have taken the boats involved far offshore. The high levels of recreational boating, diving and swimming activity seen during summer have also been a constant source of taskings for the Gozitan boats with numerous rescues, as-
P32 as it sailed close to Comino.
sistance activities and safety patrols having been conducted. Base infrastructure remains relatively rudimentary but has been improved with the installation of a mooring pontoon and the acquisition of rest-rooms and administrative spaces for the crews and support staff. There has been some evaluation of possible expanded facilities in Mgarr but these will have to co-exist with the ever-burgeoning recreational boating facilities so important to the tourist offering in Gozo. Higher level support of the boats based in the north will continue
to be provided during regular maintenance visits to Haywharf. For 40 years, Maritime Squadron was based in a single location in the Valletta Harbours. Today’s challenges have required that these changes and the assets are geographically distributed in a manner that better meets operational requirements. The establishment of Gozo Command Maritime Component represents the recognition of the importance of the Northern Approaches to our islands and the intention to ensure that we remain ready to respond. ★
AFM MEDALS
SERVICE MEDALS WORN IN THE ARMED FORCES OF MALTA Major Nicholas Cassar Second in Command – 1 Regiment
• Depicted above are the CSDP Medals awarded to military personnel who have participated in Operation Atalanta. The European Union Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) has been involved in this counter piracy operation off the coast of Somalia since 2008. The blue and white ribbon is issued to personnel who have served in the Operational Headquarters whilst the blue and yellow ribbon is awarded to personnel who served in theatre.
ften we witness soldiers being decorated with medals on various occasions. These ceremonies are usually characterised by pomp and an aura of pride, at times provoking the on looking civilians to question the raison d’etre behind a military medal. A medal is more than a piece of metal stamped with an inscription – it is a symbolic recognition of a soldier’s exceptional role in an operation or an event. The Common Security Defense Policy (CSDP) medal is an international military decoration that over the past nine years has been awarded to members of the Armed Forces of Malta who have served in CSDP missions. In recognition of military personnel’s service in EU missions, AFM personnel are now authorized to wear these medals on parades and formal occasions. The medal is 36 mm in diameter, made of a silver colored metal. All CSDP medals have a common obverse face which is plain except for a circle of twelve five pointed stars around the outside edge of the medal. The reverse side contains the Latin phrase, Pro Pace Unum, meaning “United for Peace”. A clasp is attached to the ribbon indicating the mission that the recipient participated in.
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• In addition to the CSDP medal, thirty eight individuals have also been awarded the Dutch commemorative medal for peace operations. This medal is typically awarded to individuals who have participated in a peace operation for more than thirty consecutive days and have displayed irreproachable conduct and due attention to duty in every respect during their participation. The face of this circular medal depicts a hand emerging from the bottom rim holding aloft a sword entwined in a laurel branch. The tip of the sword reaches for the sun with eight rays depicted descending through the clouds. The reverse side shows the kingdom’s coat of arms.
42 ON PARADE | October 2014
Warrant Officer I Roger Mulvaney MRQ Garrison Sergeant Major
• The medals depicted above (right) have been awarded to twelve AFM personnel for service in the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM) in Georgia as indicated by the clasp. The medal on the left was awarded to two officers for their service at EU operational headquarters during the Libyan crisis.
• 17 AFM personnel who have served in the European Union Training Mission in Uganda (EUTM) have been awarded this medal. EUTM is an EU Military Training Mission launched in April 2010 in order to contribute, strengthen and assist the new and developing Somali security forces led by Transitional Federal Government (TFG) that wish to establish stability in Somalia.
➔ The Long and Efficient Service Medal (L.E.S.M.) is awarded to all eligible personnel for a specified length of unblemished service within the Force. The L.E.S.M. was first presented to 253 officers and other ranks in 1992 having over 18 years of service and a clean conduct sheet. This medal is given to a soldier who has completed 18, 25 or 30 years reckonable service, where the commanding officer, who at this stage is the sole judge of the requisite standard of conduct, is to decide whether or not to initiate a recommendation. Only those soldiers who are in every way worthy of the distinction and whose conduct has been irreproachable throughout their service are in the end recommended. Those with over 30 years’ service receive a medal with two clasps. A medal with one clasp is awarded to those having served between 25 and 30 years. • The medal on the left is the Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) which is a military decoration awarded to AFM personnel for notable service both in operational and non-operational areas. An AFM member who has distinguished himself or herself by outstandingly praiseworthy service to the AFM in a duty of great responsibility is awarded the DSM by the President of Malta. The performance must be such as to merit recognition for service that is clearly outstanding. ★
Upgrade of support facilities and equipment at the Maritime Squadron Base of the Armed Forces of Malta This project is aimed at upgrading vital equipment which is used during the transfer of fuel on board Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) Patrol Vessels of the Maritime Squadron. An upgrade which shall provide the Squadron with a partial self-sufficient fuel dispensing capability that conforms to the current national and international safety standards. This development shall provide for the installation and commissioning of a number of underground fuel tanks, fuel filtration systems, pumps, controls and fuel dispensing equipment. These systems are vital for the professional transfer of fuel on board Maritime Squadron assets currently in use. Furthermore, this modernisation shall also cover the supply, installation and commissioning of an emergency power generation system, including a firefighting capability. With the installation of such equipment, the bunkering capability of the Maritime Squadron Base shall improve drastically, while enhancing the practicality and the safety of works related to mooring, bunkering and loading or unloading of AFM Patrol Boats. This upgrade shall enable the craft to take filtered fuel on board quickly and efficiently, whilst keeping personnel within the required parameters of Health and Safety. Without a doubt, this modernisation shall induce a higher level of selfsufficiency and is expected to significantly improve operational efficiency while upholding proper security measures. The project is scheduled for completion in 2015. Captain Ing. Jonathan Cutajar B Eng (Hons) PROJECT LEADER
This project is part-financed by the European Union under the External Borders Fund (EBF) (Specific Actions 2012) Co-financing rate: 80% EU Funds: 20% Government of Malta