EU extends Red Sea naval mission to protect vital shipping lanes

The decision, confirmed by the Council on 23 February 2026, ensures that European warships will continue to provide a defensive shield for merchant vessels in one of the world’s most volatile maritime corridors. Alongside the extension, the EU has allocated nearly €15 million to fund the mission’s operations through the coming year.

Launched in response to the ongoing Red Sea crisis, ASPIDES acts as a direct guardian for commercial shipping. The mission focuses on the vital sea lanes near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and monitors the Strait of Hormuz, covering a vast area across the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea.

The mission’s impact is already visible. By June 2025, marine traffic in the Red Sea had bounced back by roughly 60% from its post-attack lows. While volumes remain below pre-crisis levels, the presence of EU escorts has been a critical factor in restoring the confidence of global shipping firms.

A lean but vital shield

Despite its success, the mission operates with a small, focused fleet. The ASPIDES commander has previously noted the challenges of “intercepting threats and escorting vessels” with a limited number of ships available at any one time.

During recent spikes in regional tension, the mission has had to remain highly adaptable, providing a constant presence even as national authorities issued urgent safety warnings to their merchant fleets.

With another strategic review scheduled for late 2026, the EU’S message remains clear: it will continue to defend the freedom of navigation and protect the “maritime motor” of the global economy.