Boarding Drills Under Operation IRINI in the Mediterranean

Helis, April 08, 2026 - Under the framework of Operation IRINI, European naval units conducted a coordinated boarding exercise involving ITS Morosini of the Italian Navy and HS Aegean of the Hellenic Navy, supported by an NH90 helicopter.

The exercise focused on maritime interdiction operations (MIO), a core element of IRINI’s mandate to enforce the United Nations arms embargo on Libya. Crews rehearsed fast-rope insertions from the helicopter onto a vessel, followed by dynamic boarding and compartment clearing procedures.

These drills enhance interoperability between participating navies, ensuring seamless coordination between air and surface units in high-tempo scenarios. The integration of helicopters such as the NH90 enables rapid and precise deployment of boarding teams, even in challenging maritime conditions.

ITS Francesco Morosini (P431) is a state-of-the-art Multipurpose Offshore Patrol Vessel (PPA) of the Italian Navy, featuring a distinctive wave-piercing double bow design. Named after the 108th Doge of Venice, the ship is the second in the Thaon di Revel class and is built for high operational flexibility, capable of transitioning between patrol, combat, and civil protection roles. Among its key innovations is the “Naval Cockpit,” an integrated bridge system allowing two operators to manage navigation and combat systems through multifunction displays. With speeds exceeding 32 knots and a modular stern designed for mission-specific payloads, Morosini is a versatile asset in international operations such as IRINI.

HS Aegean (F460) is an Elli-class frigate of the Hellenic Navy, originally commissioned as the Kortenaer-class HNLMS Banckert in 1980. Transferred to Greece in 1993, the vessel underwent a Mid-Life Modernization between 2008 and 2010, upgrading its combat systems and sensors, including the Tacticos management system. Designed for multi-role operations, it is equipped for anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare, and has regularly served in international missions such as IRINI, leveraging its aviation facilities and communication systems for coordinated maritime security tasks.

EUNAVFOR

EUNAVFOR (European Union Naval Force) represents the operational arm of the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy at sea, designed to protect maritime interests and global security. These executive missions, such as Operation IRINI in the Mediterranean and Operation ATALANTA off the coast of Somalia, deploy collective military naval assets to combat piracy, enforce arms embargos, and disrupt human trafficking. By integrating the naval power of multiple member states under a single command, EUNAVFOR acts as a primary guarantor of international law in critical waterways. Beyond enforcement, these forces provide a visible deterrent and humanitarian support, ensuring that vital trade routes remain open and stable for the global economy.

EUNAVFOR Operation IRINI

Operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI, launched in 2020, is a key European Union mission aimed at stabilizing Libya by enforcing the UN arms embargo and monitoring illicit petroleum exports. Operating in the Mediterranean, it supports maritime security and contributes to conditions for a ceasefire.

Beyond arms monitoring, IRINI also targets human trafficking networks, deploying naval and air assets from EU member states. The mission emphasizes interoperability, enabling coordinated inspections and complex tactical operations in contested waters.

Operation IRINI is a truly European initiative, currently involving 23 EU member states contributing personnel and assets. While the composition of naval and air units rotates, the operation draws strength from a broad multinational framework.

Core asset providers such as Italy, Greece, France, and Germany regularly deploy major naval units, including frigates. Air and support contributions include maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft from countries such as Luxembourg and Poland. In addition, personnel from Austria, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Romania, Slovenia, and Sweden support operational and headquarters roles.

The operation is headquartered in Rome, Italy, with command typically rotating between Italy and Greece every six months.