On 19 February 2024 the EU Foreign Affair Council launched EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, a defensive operation with the aim to protect precious global public goods; freedom of navigation, international trade and maritime security.
One month into the Operation, ASPIDES assets have achieved the close protection of 35 merchant vessels. These operations led to defensive actions which included shooting down 8 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAVs) and repelling 3 other UAV attacks posing a threat to the freedom of navigation
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES continues its mission in full compliance with international law, shielding freedom of navigation and supporting the maritime industry. The entry point for maritime shipping remains the Maritime Security Center – Horn of Africa : https://on-shore.mschoa.org
