The Italian frigate BERGAMINI provided close protection to merchant vessels transiting the Red Sea, ensuring their safe passage, the EU Naval Force Operation ASPIDES announced on 23 July 2026. The operation contributes to keeping one of the world's most vital waterways open and secure amid ongoing regional tensions.
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, launched in February 2024, is the European Union's naval mission to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and surrounding waters. The operation deploys warships and aerial assets to protect commercial shipping from attacks, particularly by Houthi forces in Yemen. The BERGAMINI, an Italian FREMM-class frigate, has been part of the operation's rotating force. The mission operates under a mandate from the EU Council and coordinates with other international naval coalitions in the region. No prior coverage of this specific escort mission exists in the available record.