EU declines to budge in face of Malta’s migrant concerns
The EU is hopeful that an agreement can be reached with Malta regarding its new maritime security mission to the Mediterranean – known as Operation Irini – which has been interrupted after objections were raised by the island nation.
Reports have circulated in recent days that Malta is concerned that Operation Irini could push the flow of migrants its way, a situation that would put severe strain on its infrastructure.
Shephard reported in April that the mission may only serve to divert migrants from established routes and into Europe through other channels, and that SAR operations could be considered secondary
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Europe’s naval contractors benefit from growing refit and upgrade demand]()
Europe’s naval contractors benefit from growing refit and upgrade demand
Rheinmetall’s order to modernise the German Navy frigate Bayern points to a wider European shift towards extending warship service life as new-build programmes face delay.
-
![The UK joins the movement towards joint procurement]()
The UK joins the movement towards joint procurement
The UK will spend an estimated US$3.89 billion over the next decade in joint naval programmes, a lot of which will be in cooperation with Norway.
-
![Rheinmetall’s GMF 140: Ambitious frigate or market misfit?]()
Rheinmetall’s GMF 140: Ambitious frigate or market misfit?
Rheinmetall has unveiled its first next-generation frigate design, showing ambitions to compete as a surface combatant prime contractor. While the company is targeting North America, analysts believe the concept may be better positioned for future European programmes.
-
![US Navy $76.6bn award provides stability for submarine production]()
US Navy $76.6bn award provides stability for submarine production
The US Department of War’s US$76.6 billion Columbia-and Virginia-class submarine contract gives industry demand certainty as Washington seeks to rebuild its shipbuilding base.
-
![Dreadnought Phase 4 opens £2.5 billion supply chain opportunity]()
Dreadnought Phase 4 opens £2.5 billion supply chain opportunity
The UK government’s £8.4 billion Dreadnought Phase 4 investment sets aside £2.5 billion for the wider submarine supply chain, opening new work beyond BAE Systems’ prime contract.
