German Frigate "Hessen" on High-Risk Mission

Under the banner of security, the warship "Hessen" navigates into the turbulent waters of the Red Sea. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the high urgency of the upcoming mission during a troop visit: "It is the most serious, and also the most dangerous naval deployment in decades." The "Hessen" embarks on its mission, confident yet fully aware of the dangers, to protect sea trade against attacks by the Huthi militia, as part of the EU Operation "Aspides". Round-the-clock readiness becomes daily routine for the 240-member crew, meticulously trained to repel any type of attack—from ballistic missiles to explosive-laden speedboats. The scope of the threat even extends beyond trade policy horizons. The strategically important route through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal is increasingly deserted, as large shipping companies, worried by approximately five weekly Huthi attacks, detour around the perilous passage. Countering this trend plays a crucial role in global economic linkages. Pistorius, emphasizing the important task aboard the "Hessen," sees the mission as an essential contribution to securing the rules-based international order. The deployment underscores the need for international cooperation: 17 EU countries and Norway have indicated their approval; a broad majority in the Bundestag is already within sight. Before the parliamentary assent gives the green light on Friday, the "Hessen" is already in the starting blocks in the Suez Canal. As a well-equipped guarantor of security with advanced radar and missile defense systems, it stands as a representative for a Bundeswehr that is ready to take on global responsibility. The seriousness of the deployment is also reflected in the full equipment: helicopters, additional forces, a medical team, and a military chaplain ensure not only comprehensive operational but also moral support for the crew. With this backing, the mood on board is described as "tensely positive", leading to a determined progression.