EU Aspides force lacks ships to protect Red Sea maritime traffic

In early April, there was a notable reduction in Houthi rebel attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. 

This lull in hostilities is likely attributed to recent U.S. and British strikes on Houthi military assets and the deterrent presence of international naval missions, including EUNAVFOR’s Aspides and Operation Guardian of Prosperity. Despite this temporary reprieve, U.S. CENTCOM officials, including Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, caution that the Houthis’ missile and drone stockpiles may be replenished by Iran, potentially leading to a resurgence of attacks.

Evolving Houthi Tactics

Navy Capt. Marvin Scott of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower has observed significant shifts in Houthi tactics. The rebels are increasingly employing multi-domain, multi-access strategies to overcome defensive measures implemented by Operations Aspides and Guardian of Prosperity. One such innovation is the deployment of "kamikaze" surface drones, such as the “Toofan 1,” which carries substantial explosive payloads. These drones have caused considerable damage, including the June 12 attack on the Greek bulk carrier Tutor, which resulted in the vessel's sinking after a forced evacuation. Similarly, the Ukrainian bulk carrier M/V Verbena was heavily damaged and abandoned, highlighting the persistent and evolving maritime threat posed by the Houthis.

Operational Constraints and Calls for Reinforcements

Greek Rear Admiral Vasileios Gryparis, leading the European operation Aspides, has underscored the urgent need for additional resources. Presently, Aspides comprises four ships from France, Belgium, Greece, and Italy, supplemented by the Dutch logistics support ship Zr.Ms. Karel Doorman under Operation Guardian of Prosperity, bringing the total to five ships. Admiral Gryparis argues that the extensive operational area requires at least double the current number of vessels to effectively counter the Houthi threat. His call for increased support from member states reflects the operational challenges faced by the mission in ensuring maritime security in the region.

Strategic Importance and Defensive Focus

Operation Aspides is strictly a defensive mission aimed at securing maritime routes without engaging directly with Houthi forces on land, a strategy that contrasts with the more aggressive approaches of the U.S. and Britain. Admiral Gryparis asserts that offensive actions against the Houthis have historically failed to resolve the underlying issues, reinforcing the mission's focus on protecting shipping lanes and preventing attacks.

Aspides Naval Mission Objectives

The EU Aspides Naval Mission, part of the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP), plays a critical role in safeguarding maritime security in the Red Sea. Its objectives extend beyond countering piracy and human trafficking to include capacity-building with regional partners. This mission is strategically significant due to its proximity to key maritime chokepoints like the Suez Canal and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which are vital for global trade.

Conclusion

The Houthi maritime threat remains a dynamic challenge necessitating sustained international naval cooperation and resource allocation. While temporary reductions in attacks provide some respite, the evolving tactics of the Houthis and their potential resupply underscore the need for continued vigilance and enhanced defensive capabilities. The strategic importance of the Red Sea's maritime routes demands a robust and coordinated response to ensure the safety and stability of international maritime traffic.