DAKAR (Reuters) – As it steams down the West African coast, the USS Fort McHenry faces one of its toughest battles: to convince skeptical Africans their continent can benefit from more U.S. military involvement.
The 600-foot (185-metre) ship, which saw combat in the first Gulf War, is embarking on a six-month mission to train West African navies to fight drug smuggling and maritime security threats in a region which supplies nearly a fifth of U.S. oil imports, rivaling the Middle East.
Once a rarity, U.S. warships will become a familiar sight in the Gulf of Guinea under the new African Partnership Station (APS) scheme launched last week. Washington will maintain a constant naval presence in the strategically important region, providing training and humanitarian aid.
“In the past, we have been guilty of what some would call episodic engagement,” said Captain John Nowell, head of U.S. navy operations in Africa, on the Fort McHenry’s towering bridge. “Now, the idea behind the Africa Partnership Station is that it is a persistent presence.”
“It’s not only about maritime security and safety but also building relationships and partnerships,” he said.
