Mandate extends as smuggler profits soar
Following the decision by the European Commission to extend the mandate of the EUNAVFOR mission to the Mediterranean, otherwise known as Operation Sophia, the force will increasingly focus on the dangerous central migrant route.
According to the UNHCR, there have been 208,150 arrivals by sea in 2016. More than one million entered the EU last year.
So far this year 2,856 people migrants attempting a sea crossing are listed as dead or missing. The total number of those dead or missing at sea is approaching 13,000 since records began in 2010.
The extension will come into effect on 27
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns]()
UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
-
![As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?]()
As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
-
![US Navy to invest more than $700 million in laser-related R&D efforts in FY2026]()
US Navy to invest more than $700 million in laser-related R&D efforts in FY2026
The US Navy’s acceleration of its laser weapon development initiatives reflects a decisive shift towards ultimately having a “laser on every ship” across tomorrow’s surface fleet.
