The Italian frigate BERGAMINI, operating under the EU's naval mission EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, provided close protection to a merchant vessel transiting the mission's Area of Operations, the European External Action Service (EEAS) announced on 24 June 2026. The operation underscores ASPIDES' role in safeguarding shipping and supporting safe passage through critical maritime routes.
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, launched in February 2024, is the European Union's defensive maritime security operation in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and surrounding waters. Its mandate includes protecting merchant vessels from attacks, particularly from Houthi rebels in Yemen, and ensuring freedom of navigation. The mission operates under the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and involves contributions from several EU member states, including Italy, which has provided the frigate BERGAMINI as part of its naval assets.
The close protection operation, described as a routine but critical task, involved the BERGAMINI escorting the merchant vessel through high-risk waters. No further details on the vessel's identity or the specific threat were disclosed. The EEAS press release emphasized that ASPIDES plays a crucial role in maintaining maritime security and supporting the safe passage of commercial shipping, which is vital for global trade and energy supplies.
This deployment is part of the EU's broader effort to protect freedom of navigation in the region, following a series of attacks on commercial shipping by Houthi forces since late 2023. The mission operates alongside other international naval coalitions, such as the US-led Operation Prosperity Guardian, but maintains an independent EU command structure. The BERGAMINI's involvement highlights Italy's continued commitment to the operation, which has seen rotating contributions from various member states' naval forces.
The protection of merchant vessels remains a core task for ASPIDES, which has conducted numerous escorts and patrols since its inception. The mission's success depends on the availability of naval assets from member states, and the BERGAMINI's deployment reflects ongoing EU solidarity in addressing maritime security challenges.