German warships set sail on anti-terrorism patrol

Six German warships have joined the war on terrorism, setting off to patrol seas off the Horn of Africa in the nation’s largest naval deployment since the Second World War.

Two frigates and four support ships carrying an initial 750 soldiers slipped out of the North Sea port of Wilhelmshaven on a mission to protect shipping and cut off any routes used by terror groups.

The craft, along with five German speedboats expected to leave later this week on transport ships, are due to reach the Horn of Africa in about three weeks.

Germany has pledged up to 3,900 troops, including up to 1,800 Navy soldiers, for the fight against terrorism.

While none have been involved in combat missions, German planes have helped carry supplies toward Afghanistan.

While it is still unclear in which port the German ships will be based, they are patrolling an area close to Yemen, Sudan and Somalia - three countries where the al-Qaida organisation of Osama bin Laden is believed to have bases and supporters.