As of: May 5, 2024 12:00 a.m
The frigate “Hessen” protected merchant ships in the Red Sea against attacks by the Houthi militia. Today she returns to her home port. Meanwhile, the naval inspector is demanding the purchase of two more frigates.
The “Hessen” is scheduled to arrive in Wilhelmshaven at 10 a.m. with around 240 soldiers on board. “Now we go home knowing that we have not only fulfilled our mission, but that we have also written a piece of naval history,” said Commander Frigate Captain Volker Kübsch. According to the Bundeswehr, the “Hessen” was able to escort a total of 27 merchant ships during its operation and repelled four attacks. It was the first combat mission with live weapons in the history of the German Navy.
Frigate “Hessen”: Operation in the Red Sea
The frigate “Hessen” covered 25,000 nautical miles, or 46,000 kilometers, during its two-month mission. The sea route through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal is one of the most important trade routes in the world. Because of the attacks by the Houthis, allied with Iran, large shipping companies are sometimes avoiding the shortest sea connection between Asia and Europe – with significant effects on the global economy. Therefore, the frigate “Hessen” was deployed as part of the EU military mission “Aspides” to secure the sea route on the Yemeni coast. As a successor, the Federal Navy will provide the frigate “Hamburg” for the Aspides mission from the beginning of August.
Navy chief calls for more frigates to be ordered
Meanwhile, Marine Inspector Jan Christian Kaack has opted for an order from two additional frigates for the naval forces pronounced. The vice admiral referred, among other things, to a changed security situation and the importance of the German navy for protecting critical infrastructure. Construction of the first F126 class frigate began in December. Four frigates are financed, but there is an option for two more ships at a similar price. “I think it is absolutely necessary for Germany to take this option and order these two frigates,” said Kaack.
Further information
The “Hessen” set off from Wilhelmshaven into the Red Sea in February to protect merchant ships from the Houthi militia. (04/08/2024) more
Since the end of 2023, merchant ships have had to take detours due to attacks in the Red Sea. This results in higher costs for shipping companies. (03/12/2024) more
According to Minister Pistorius, it is intended to protect merchant ships from attacks by Houthi militias in the second half of the year. (03/07/2024) more
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NDR 1 Lower Saxony | Regional Oldenburg | April 29, 2024 | 3:00 p.m