On Friday 25 September 2015, Spanish warship, ESPS Meteoro, made a close approach to USNS John Ericsson off the coast of Somalia to refuel.
The complex manoeuvre to carry out the replenishment at sea (RAS) was made even more difficult due to rough seas and high winds.
Despite the weather the ships were able to complete the RAS within two hours, before ESPS Meteoro continued her counter-piracy patrols along the Somali coastline.
The following day Spanish flagship, ESPS Galicia, also rendezvoused with USNS John Ericsson to conduct a RAS. With more favourable weather conditions, ESPS Galicia was able to receive over 650,000 litres of fuel.
Conducting a RAS at sea enables Operation Atalanta warships to remain on mission with minimum disruption. This allows for greater protection of vulnerable ships transiting the region and increases maritime security against acts of piracy.