Rapid Deployment

Two Matador class corvettes and the destroyer RoCN Brava departed early this morning at flank speed for what Southern Fleet HQ is describing as "an impromptu training exercise." Uniquely, observers on shore noted that Naval Infantry forces were rapidly being transferred aboard the three vessels shortly before their speedy departure, suggesting some form of amphibious exercise. Estimates place the number of embarked troops at somewhere between sixty and eighty persons. Speculation suggests that, as the 3rd Fleet traditionally is tasked with training functions, this deployment may not be as straightforward as it would seem, as RoCN Ferviente's return to port with survivors of the Neosho incident has been delayed in order to "participate in the operation."

The Naval Office also confirmed that "airborne elements" have been deployed as part of this exercise.