EUNAVFOR ASPIDES Hosts High-Level Observation Event of Exercise EU IR26 (PACE) and Honours Personnel for Extraordinary Meritorious Service
Larissa, Greece | 05 November 2026
On 05 November 2026, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES hosted the High-Level Observation
Event of Exercise EU IR26 (PACE) at the Hellenic European Union Operations
Headquarters (EL EU OHQ) in Larissa, Greece.
The event brought together distinguished representatives of the European Union, senior
military officials, representatives of national and regional authorities, and other invited
guests, highlighting the European Union’s commitment to strengthening its operational
readiness, military cooperation and contribution to international security.
The High-Level Observation Event provided an opportunity to gain insight into the
planning, command and conduct of EU-led military operations, highlighting the
important role of the EU Operational Headquarters in implementing the Common
Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
A central part of the event was the presentation of the EU CSDP Service Medal for
Extraordinary Meritorious Service to military personnel who have served under
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, in recognition of their exceptional dedication, professionalism
and contribution to the Operation.
The medals were presented by General Seán CLANCY, Chairman of the European
Union Military Committee (CEUMC), following the decision of the EU High
Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, dated 12 June 2025.
During the ceremony, Rear Admiral Vasileios GRYPARIS, Commander of
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, congratulated the decorated personnel and emphasised three
key messages: pride in their achievements, the importance of the operational experience
gained in preparing the EU for future maritime challenges, and the need to remain ready
for an increasingly demanding security environment.
He highlighted that freedom of navigation is fundamental to international trade,
European prosperity and global stability, while stressing that EUNAVFOR ASPIDES
represents a concrete demonstration of the European Union’s role as a maritime security
provider.
Rear Admiral Gryparis also paid tribute to the personnel who served under particularly
challenging operational conditions, demonstrating exceptional professionalism, courage
and dedication while protecting commercial shipping and seafarers.
He underlined that the experience gained through ASPIDES must be preserved and
shared, contributing to the future development of EU military capabilities and
operational preparedness.
Addressing the personnel and distinguished guests, General Seán CLANCY, Chairman
of the European Union Military Committee, praised the dedication and professionalism
of those serving under EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, emphasising the strategic importance
of their mission.
“Your work matters. And it is recognised,” he stated, acknowledging the demanding
and unpredictable security environment in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
General Clancy stressed that ASPIDES operates under a clearly defined defensive
mandate, stating: “ASPIDES is not here to escalate conflict. It is here to protect
maritime traffic, uphold freedom of navigation and contribute to regional stability.”
He also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the Operation is provided with the
necessary naval assets, personnel and capabilities to sustain its effectiveness.
“Our operational ambitions must be matched by the resources necessary to achieve
them,” he emphasised, linking adequate resources to operational credibility, mission
effectiveness and the safety of deployed personnel.
Concluding his address, General Clancy congratulated the medal recipients, recognising
their discipline, dedication and contribution to European security and defence.
Since its launch in February 2024, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES has contributed to
safeguarding freedom of navigation and protecting commercial shipping in the Red Sea
and surrounding maritime areas.
Operating under a strictly defensive mandate, in accordance with international law and
within its mandate, means and capabilities, the Operation contributes to the protection
of merchant vessels, the safety of seafarers and the continuity of vital international
maritime trade routes.
The High-Level Observation Event and medal ceremony highlighted the importance of
European cooperation, operational readiness and the dedication of military personnel
serving under the EU flag.
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES remains committed to its mission, contributing to maritime
security, safeguarding human life at sea and supporting freedom of navigation in one of
the world’s most strategically important maritime regions.
