On Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 10 a.m., the ocean-going tug “Rügen” will leave the naval base under the command of Captain Lutz Lücken. After approximately one and a half years since its commissioning for the German Navy, the ocean-going tug will embark on its first deployment in the Mediterranean.
The ship underwent extensive remodeling in advance to meet the so-called Bundeswehr standard. Numerous modifications were made to the bridge, radio room, cabins, small hospital, galley, and lounges. “After a refitting and repair phase at the Wilhelmshaven Naval Arsenal (MArs), operational preparations for the upcoming Aegean deployment are complete. After this long, demanding stay at the MArs, the crew is looking forward to the upcoming deployment,” says Captain Lücken. “For most crew members, this deployment will be their first operational experience at sea, and the crew is highly motivated,” the captain continues, looking ahead to the deployment.
For this mission, the civilian-manned vessel will operate with a total crew of almost 30. In addition to the regular crew, the ocean-going tug will be supplemented in the operational area by a military staff and a Turkish and Greek liaison officer.
After approximately six months, the “Rügen” is expected back in Wilhelmshaven.
Background information
In addition to missions mandated by the Bundestag, the German Navy regularly participates in NATO’s four multinational naval forces, such as SNMG 2. The German Navy permanently contributes ships and boats to these forces. Participation in NATO forces is part of Germany’s commitment to the Alliance, even in peacetime. These NATO forces have existed for decades.
The NATO activity in the Aegean Sea is NATO’s contribution to addressing the refugee and migration crisis. It was initiated in February 2016 at the request of Germany, Greece, and Turkey with the aim of rapidly and significantly reducing the flow of refugees through the Aegean Sea. With these activities, NATO intends to contribute to a situational awareness for the Greek and Turkish coast guards and the European border agency FRONTEX. NATO forces provide support through maritime surveillance and the exchange of situational information to assist the authorities involved in their efforts against human traffickers and their networks.
Background information on the deep-sea tug “Rügen”
The “Rügen” is an ocean-going tug that optimally meets the requirements of today’s maritime industry. The vessel features advanced towing systems and towing equipment and is capable of towing up to 21,000 tons at full load to safe harbor in Sea Area A3. Sea Area A3 refers to those sea areas located outside coastal waters, such as the Atlantic Ocean and the western British-Irish maritime borders. The tug is equipped with a workboat and also offers the option of embarking additional personnel to optimally support operations, such as those in the Aegean Sea.