Turkish Navy’s security center becomes multi-national

The Multinational Maritime Security Centre of Excellence (MARSEC COE), founded in 2012 by the Turkish Naval Forces Command, has become a multinational entity following its recognition by NATO and member states following conferences held this year in February and May. Following a signing ceremony held on 18 October 2019, the MMSCE has officially acquired multinational status, a significant step towards full NATO accreditation.

MARSEC COE Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Singing Ceremony was hosted by The Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) on 18 October 2019 in Norfolk, USA with the participation of the Country’s sponsoring countries Romania, Greece, NAO Allied Command Transformation (ACT) and Turkish Naval Forces Command representatives.

With the presence of Rear Admiral Yankı Bağcıoğlu, Head of Operations of The Turkish Navy HQ as Representative of the Framework Nation and MARSEC COE Director Captain (N) Sümer Kayser, the MoU was signed between Turkey and representatives of Greece and Romania as sponsoring nations.

The MARSEC COE will work towards expanding the capabilities of NATO and Partner Nations by providing comprehensive innovative and timely expertise in the field of Maritime Security Operations.

Currently, personnel from navies of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Qatar take duty at the center as part of a six-month long rotation scheme.