Somali Piracy Surge: Greek Tanker Hellas Aphrodite Rescued by EU NAVFOR

Somali Piracy Resurfaces After Years of Decline

After a period of relative stability, Somali piracy has made a dramatic comeback in the Indian Ocean. On November 11, 2025, the Greek-owned tanker Hellas Aphrodite was attacked by armed pirates approximately 560 nautical miles southeast of Eyl, Somalia. The assailants used RPGs and automatic weapons, marking one of the most aggressive incidents in recent years.

Operation ATALANTA: A Successful Rescue

EU NAVFOR’s Operation ATALANTA responded swiftly, deploying naval assets and special forces to liberate the vessel. All 24 crew members were rescued unharmed, and the pirates were neutralized. This operation underscores the critical role of international naval coalitions in safeguarding global shipping lanes.

Why Are Pirate Attacks Increasing Again?

Analysts warn that Pirate Action Groups (PAGs) are becoming more organized. These groups hijack dhows as motherships, enabling them to operate up to 1,000 nautical miles offshore—far beyond traditional piracy zones. This resurgence is linked to:

• Economic instability in Somalia
• Reduced naval patrols in high-risk areas
• Growing demand for ransom payments

Impact on Global Shipping

The Indian Ocean is a vital artery for global trade, connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. A surge in piracy threatens:

• Supply chain reliability
• Insurance premiums for shipping companies
• Crew safety and operational costs

How to Protect Your Vessel

Shipping companies are urged to:

1. Register with MSCIO’s Voluntary Registration Scheme for real-time monitoring.
2. Implement Best Management Practices (BMP5), including:
   • Increased watchkeeping
   • Physical barriers and citadels
   • Use of armed security teams
3. Stay updated on High-Risk Area (HRA) advisories and reroute if necessary.

The Road Ahead

While the successful rescue of Hellas Aphrodite is a victory, experts caution that Somali piracy is evolving. International cooperation, advanced surveillance, and proactive security measures remain essential to keep the Indian Ocean safe for global commerce.

What is the European Union Naval Force:

It is a military operation under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), primarily focused on maritime security.

The most well-known mission is Operation Atalanta, launched in 2008 to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia and protect vessels carrying humanitarian aid for the World Food Programme. Over time, its mandate expanded to include:

• Deterring and disrupting piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Western Indian Ocean.
• Protecting vulnerable shipping, including merchant vessels and humanitarian aid deliveries.
• Monitoring fishing activities off the Somali coast.
• Supporting other EU and international missions in the region.

EU NAVFOR works closely with organizations like NATO, the UN, and regional partners to maintain maritime security.