Operation ATALANTA

Current context: The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA, active in the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea, will conduct a joint exercise with the Indian Navy in late May 2025 to bolster anti‑piracy cooperation.

Background

• Launch: Initiated in 2008 to combat piracy and armed robbery off the Somali coast.
• Mandate: Protects World Food Programme (WFP) vessels, deters piracy and maritime crime, and monitors illegal fishing and drug trafficking.

Key Details

• Joint Exercise: Planned in late May 2025 with the Indian Navy to enhance interoperability in counter‑piracy operations.
• Current Threats: While overall piracy incidents have declined, a recent resurgence—linked to Houthi activities in the Red Sea—underscores ongoing risks.
• Response Capability: EUNAVFOR can deploy assets and respond to piracy incidents within 48–72 hours, serving as a key deterrent.
• Expanded Role: Beyond piracy, the operation now focuses on unregulated fishing and narcotics interdiction under its expanded mandate.