HMCS Winnipeg, the CFB Esquimalt-based patrol frigate on counter-piracy duty off Somalia, has been called on to escort a supply ship carrying vital food and supplies to the African nation.
Winnipeg will accompany a ship with a cargo from the United Nations World Food Program. The UN aims to provide food for 3.5 million Somalis this year, with 90 per cent of it to be delivered by sea.
While pirates operating in the area have launched approximately 80 attacks off Somalia's coast so far this year, no UN food ships have been targeted while under escort.
HMCS Ville de Quebec made 10 such escort missions from August to October in 2008, helping to ensure the delivery of 36,200 tonnes of food.
