\"Years ago NATO for us was a cryptic combination difficult to decipher, later a target to reach and today an everyday reality. But Admiral Pitka as the Navy flagship, this is something extraordinary and shows that there are special moments in our everyday routine,\" said the Minister of Defence Jaak Jõerüüt at the ceremony.
Defence Forces Commander Vice Adm. Tarmo Kõuts described the upcoming mission as a recognition and test for the Estonian warship. The ship will host the HQ of the mines countermeasures group as well as be responsible for logistical support, fuel and water supply and communications of the unit.
The commander of the Admiral Pitka is 1st Lieutenant Jüri Saska (30); there are 43 crewmembers.
The Navy flagship was built in Aalborg, Denmark, in 1975 and turned over to Estonia in 2000. The former patrol frigate\'s displacement is 1,970 tons, top speed 18 knots; the ship is 74.7 metres long with a beam of 12.2 metres. The armament consists of one 76 mm cannon.
The reception ceremony to the NATO Response Force will take place in Den Helden naval base in Holland on May 12. The mission will last 10 months.
Press Release no 34 NATO Flagship Left on Mission
The Navy flagship Admiral Pitka left on May 4 for the Netherlands in order to begin a mission as the staff and support vessel of the Standing NATO Response Force forces mines countermeasures group.