The EL EU OHQ in Larissa has declared its Initial Operational Capability (IOC) on 23 February 2024, in the framework of the Operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES which was officially launched by the EU Foreign Affair Council.
The EUNAVFOR ASPIDES is a European Union maritime security operation to safeguard freedom of navigation in relation to the Red Sea crisis. This Operation is defensive in nature and carries out its mandate in full respect of international law, including the principles of necessity and proportionality. It has a threefold mandate: to protect vessels against multi-domain attacks at sea in full respect of international law; to accompany vessels; and to ensure maritime situational awareness, in coordination with partners.
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES contributes to the safeguarding of freedom of navigation, international trade, and maritime security, and thus strengthens global stability and security.
