EU mounts mission against Somali pirates

The European Union will take part in international efforts to crack down on piracy off the coast of Somalia. Operation Atlanta will the first ever maritime mission mounted by the EU and will begin in December. It is also intended to protect United Nations vessels carrying humanitarian aid to Somalia

At least seven ships will take part in the operation; three of them frigates, one a supply ship. If necessary, they will receive air support. The Netherlands is one of the EU countries taking part in the mission.

The Dutch frigate De Ruyter is currently patrolling the Gulf of Aden.

Read more