The Mivtach, one of the two frigates sold by Israel to Ceylon, is now officially in the hands of the Ceylonese Navy, it was reported here today. In a ceremony in the Bay of Aden, the Israel flag was lowered, and the Ceylonese standard was raised aboard the Mivtach, as the transfer of the fighting ship was completed.
The Mivtach and its sister ship, the Miznak, were sold to the Ceylonese Navy, but remained in the Gulf of Akaba harbor at Eilat while the Ceylonese hesitated about sending a crew to Eilat to take over the ships, because the United Arab Republic frowned on the deal. Now that the ship has been transferred, some of the Israeli sailors are staying aboard the Mivtach to help train the Ceylonese crew handle the vessel.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
