The Economist: “Aspides Without Fangs”
NYN | Reports and Analyses
In a recent and striking report, The Economist revealed the weakness of the European Union’s naval operations in the Red Sea, confirming that Operation Aspides is suffering from a severe lack of resources and funding—and has failed to protect Israeli commercial vessels from Houthi (Ansar Allah) attacks.
The magazine reported that the operation, launched in February 2024, was unable to prevent Houthi attacks on the ships Magic Seas and Eternity C in early July. Both vessels were besieged, fired upon, and ultimately sunk—without any effective intervention from Aspides. In fact, one of the ships reportedly called for help from the European operation, which had no naval assets nearby to respond.
The report added that the Greek commander of the mission, Admiral Vassilios Gryparis, estimated that at least ten ships and supporting aircraft would be needed. Yet during the latest attacks, only two frigates and a single helicopter were deployed—rendering the mission ineffective.
Financially, the European Union allocated just €17 million annually to cover the costs of the operation—a figure dwarfed by U.S. spending. Washington spent more than ten times that amount just to replenish one type of missile under its Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea.
The magazine noted that decades of European reluctance to invest in military capabilities have left the EU without the naval infrastructure necessary to confront emerging threats. Its naval forces today are struggling with limited resources as maritime attacks in the region escalate.
Nevertheless, The Economist pointed out that the EU does not view the situation in the Red Sea as a direct threat, since the flow of goods to Europe has not been halted, and European ships are not being targeted like those linked to Israel—despite the rise in insurance premiums.
Commenting on the situation, American naval historian Salvatore Mercogliano said the Houthis (Ansar Allah) have demonstrated their ability to exert disproportionate impact using very limited resources. He noted that ending the attacks on ships may not be achieved through force, but rather through a comprehensive diplomatic solution.
The magazine concluded by stating that simply increasing resources will not decide the outcome of the battle in the Red Sea—even aircraft carriers may not suffice unless the broader political approach to the crisis is fundamentally reconsidered.
