For the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR), the European presence remains indispensable for the protection of strategic sea routes. The association therefore welcomes the extension of the EU Operation Aspides.
The German Shipowners’ Association (VDR) welcomes the recent decision by the Council of the European Union to extend the maritime security operation Aspides until February 28, 2027. The previous mandate would have expired at the end of February 2026. In the view of German shipowners, the continuation of the mission is an important signal for the preservation of free sea routes, stable supply chains and the protection of crews and ships.
“The extension of Aspides is an important signal of security policy reliability in a region that remains tense,” says VDR Managing Director Martin Kröger. “Our seafarers and ships need effective protection. Free and safe sea routes are the basis for the global economy and security of supply. The Red Sea in particular is of significant importance for supplying Europe. It is therefore crucial that Aspides also provides the necessary military assets to protect the merchant fleet in a plannable manner in threatening situations.”
The security situation along the maritime routes between Europe, the Middle East and Asia remains tense. The EU-led Operation Aspides supports the protection of civilian shipping against attacks. The operational area includes the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Gulf of Aden and adjacent sea areas as far as the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. By escorting merchant ships, conducting aerial reconnaissance and other security measures, the mission contributes to securing key trade routes between Asia and Europe.
For the period from March 1, 2026 to February 28, 2027, the European Union is providing around €15 million to finance the common operational costs. A further strategic review of the operation is planned for the course of 2026/27.
Bundeswehr
