Aspides

Operation Aspides, also known as European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Aspides, is an EU military operation in response to Houthi attacks with international shipping in the Red Sea. Named after the Greek word for shields, the EU describes Operation Aspides as a "purely defensive" mission to increase maritime surveillance in the region, provide escort to merchant vessels, and defend against strikes. The mission began in February 2024 and includes two or three ships deployed at any given time.