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Germany sends warships to the Red Sea to fight against the Houthis. Photo/Reuters
BERLIN – The Saxony-class frigate F221 Hessen has left Wilhelmshaven on 8 February. The German air war frigate was initially due to head for the Mediterranean, with the aim of passing through Suez into the Red Sea once Operation Aspides came into effect.
The aim is to support military efforts to protect ships from missile and drone attacks by the Houthi militia based in Yemen. Siemtje Moeller, Minister of Defense under Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius, said goodbye to the ship under the command of Fregattenkapitaen Volker Kuebsch.
5 Reasons Why Germany Joined the War Against the Houthis in the Red Sea
1. Europe is responsible for the security of trade routes
Photo/Reuters
“With Operation Aspides, Europe will assume responsibility for the security of the sea lanes in one of the most important trade routes for Germany and Europe.” Moeller said.
The Foreign Minister expects approval of Aspides by the European Council before 19 February. A mandate for the mission by the German Bundestag will follow.
2. Many European Countries Participate in the War Against the Houthis
Photo/Reuters
Berlin's decision to send “Hessen” before the political process launched Operation Aspides in line with European partners.
The Italian Navy on January 28 quietly deployed its Andrea Doria-class AAW destroyer “Caio Duilio”. The ship will operate under the purview of the existing EU mission, Atalanta, until Aspides comes into force.
The Saxon class was considered the only combatant suitable for the mission
“Hessen” before leaving Wilhelmshaven. The ship is expected to arrive at the theater of operations no later than February 19.
3. Germany has warships that are respected by many countries
According to Naval News, Germany currently operates three different types of frigates. The Hesen is an aging Brandenburg class F123, originally an ASW design, but used for a variety of patrol missions.
There are also new F125 class Baden-Wuerttemberg frigates, which are largely focused on various low-intensity combat scenarios. Finally, the three F124 frigates, built in the early 2000s, represent the “high end” of Germany's naval capabilities.