From Allied Command Operations: On Friday 23rd September, the Norwegian Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) call sign Golden Arrow made its first flight in Operation Ocean Shield. The MPA arrived at its base on 13th September and after some maintenance work flew along the Somali coast for the first time on Friday.
Aircraft provide the NATO ships with information which in turn allows them to patrol the sea in a more focussed area. The area where Somali pirates are operating is so large that an aircraft is essential to be able to patrol it effectively. (photo: Thor Stromsnes/Code One)
Image: code%20one%209%2028%2011%20Norwegian%20P3%20Orion_0.jpg