Greece now leads the European Operation Aspides in the Red Sea, as Greek Rear Admiral Vasileios Gryparis assumed command from his Italian counterpart in a handover ceremony conducted at sea, in the operational area, as reported by Star. Greece is now responsible for protecting commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea from Houthi attacks. Notably, the land-based headquarters of the European operation is permanently located in Larissa, meaning Greece now holds both command positions simultaneously. So far, the naval defense mission has proven highly successful — a fact underscored by the medal awarded to the crew of the frigate Psara, currently operating in the Red Sea.
Read more: Operation Aspides: The frigate “Psara” provided support to commercial vessels
Operation Aspides: Greece’s proposal that shaped EU naval strategy
Operation Aspides was established by the European Union following a proposal by Greece and its Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias. Its primary objective is to strengthen maritime security in a sea lane critical to international trade.
The mission is of direct relevance to Greece, given that the Greek-owned merchant fleet is the largest in the world. Protecting commercial shipping from Houthi attacks lies at the heart of the European military presence in the region.
*The photo shows the change-of-command ceremony for Operation Aspides in March 2026.
