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EUNAVFOR ASPIDES: MV SOUNION update

21.08.2024 Press and information team - EUNAVFOR Operation ASPIDES

On August 21, the MV SOUNION, which had not asked for EUNAVFOR ASPIDES protection, came under an attack in the South Red Sea area and lost its engine power.



 

MV SOUNION
© European Union, 2024

Following a request from the master, the operation dispatched a ship in order to rescue the crew.



While approaching the area, the EUNAVFOR ASPIDES ship destroyed an Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) that posed an imminent threat to the ship and the crew. All on board the MV SOUNION were subsequently rescued and are being transported to Djibouti, the nearest safe port of call.



The lives of seafarers and freedom on the high seas are nonnegotiable values and their protection is a key objective of EUNAVFOR ASPIDES.

MV SOUNION

European Union, 2024



Carrying 150.000 tonnes of crude oil, the MV SOUNION now represents a navigational and environmental hazard. It is essential that everyone in the area exercises caution and refrains from any actions that could lead to a deterioration of the current situation.



EUNAVFOR ASPIDES with a defensive mandate acts as a credible EU maritime security provider, with the aim to contribute to the freedom of navigation in the area of operation and the safe passage of merchant vessels.