Greece’s navy is on full readiness to deploy two naval units as preparations advance for a new expanded operation that would include support activities and mine-clearing efforts in the Strait of Hormuz, according to well-informed sources.
Under current planning, Greece is expected to contribute a MEKO-class frigate already participating in the European Union’s Operation Aspides, which escorts commercial vessels in the Red Sea, along with a general support ship. Authorities are examining the possible deployment of the support vessel Prometheus, the largest ship in the Hellenic Navy.
Three main scenarios are being considered for the operation. In the first, with Iran’s tolerance, the mission could last six months. In the second, the operation could extend to one year if autonomous groups operating independently of Iran remain active in the region. The third scenario involves a collapse of the underlying agreement, potentially leading to further delays or even the abandonment of the mission.
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias is scheduled to travel directly from the United States to Brussels on Thursday for the NATO summit, where the policing and mine-clearing of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to be discussed.
