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This military operation was launched in support of Resolutions 1814, 1816, 1838 and 1846 which were adopted in 2008 by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

 

Its mandate is to contribute to:

 

The protection of vessels of the World Food Programme (WFP) delivering food aid to displaced persons in Somalia; 

The protection of vulnerable vessels sailing in the Gulf of Aden and off the Somali coast. 

Employ the necessary measures, including the use of force, to deter, prevent and intervene in order to bring to an end acts of piracy and armed robbery which may be committed in the areas where they are present. 

This operation the European Unions first naval operation is being conducted in the framework of the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP).

 

The operation which was scheduled for an initial period of twelve months has now been extended by the council until Dec 2010. During this period up to 12 EU ships and a number Maritime Patrol Aircraft will operate at any one time.

 

On November 17 2009, seven EU member states are making operational contribution to the operation: Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, Greece and Sweden. Contributions from third countries such as Norway and Ukraine are participating as well. Montenegro announced it will send three soldiers. Also, a number of Cypriot, Irish, Maltese and Finnish military personnel supplement the team at the Northwood Headquarters.