Germany to Enhance Maritime Security in the Red Sea
Germany has announced plans to bolster maritime security in the Red Sea by sending a new frigate to the region in August. The decision comes in response to ongoing disruptions in maritime traffic caused by attacks from Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels.
Deployment of ‘Hamburg’ Frigate
The upcoming deployment of the ‘Hamburg’ frigate will replace the ‘Hessen’, which recently concluded its mission in the area. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed the deployment, emphasizing the importance of securing maritime routes in the region.
Mission Details
The ‘Hessen’ was initially deployed on February 23 as part of the European Union’s “Aspides” mission aimed at safeguarding ships in the area. During its mission, the ‘Hamburg’ escorted 27 merchant vessels within the intervention zone and successfully defended against multiple drone and missile attacks by the Huthi rebels.
The frigate carried approximately 240 military personnel on board, underscoring Germany’s commitment to maritime security in the Red Sea.
Escalating Tensions and International Response
The Huthi rebels have reportedly targeted nearly 100 vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden through a series of attacks. In response, US and British forces have conducted retaliatory strikes since January to deter further disruptions in the vital trade route.
To address the escalating tensions, the United States, along with its allies, established a multinational task force last year dedicated to protecting shipping lanes in the Red Sea.