The Hellenic Frigate HS PSARA, operating under EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, provided close protection support to a merchant vessel crossing the Red Sea, the EU's naval mission announced on 8 July 2026. The operation underscores the mission's role in enhancing maritime security and safeguarding freedom of navigation in the region.
The press release, issued by the EEAS Press and information team for EUNAVFOR Operation ASPIDES, highlights that through its continuous presence at sea, the mission contributes to the safe passage of commercial shipping. No further details on the specific vessel or the nature of the support were disclosed.
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, launched in February 2024, is the EU's naval operation in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and surrounding waters, tasked with protecting merchant shipping from attacks, particularly by Houthi forces in Yemen. The mission operates under a mandate to escort vessels, provide maritime situational awareness, and respond to threats. The HS PSARA is one of several European naval assets contributed by EU member states to the operation.
The close protection mission comes amid ongoing tensions in the Red Sea, where commercial shipping has faced repeated attacks since late 2023. The EU operation works alongside other international naval coalitions to ensure the security of one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. The EEAS statement reaffirms the EU's commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation and protecting economic interests in the region.