On September 30, 2024, the European Union Naval Force in the Red Sea, known as "Aspides," announced the addition of a new Greek frigate to bolster its mission of safeguarding international shipping routes.

In a statement released via the social media platform X, which was obtained by Bran Press, Aspides noted that the Greek frigate "HS SPETSAI" and its crew will play a crucial role in supporting the mission by contributing to the freedom of navigation throughout the operational area.

The statement emphasized that the EU naval force remains committed to ensuring maritime security and protecting the lives of seafarers as well as global trade goods.

Established on February 19, 2024, the EU's Aspides mission is a naval operation aimed at protecting vessels from attacks carried out by the Iran-backed Houthi group, which is designated as a terrorist organization, in the Red Sea.