Germany's Cabinet has approved a one-year extension of the Bundeswehr's participation in two multinational naval operations in the Mediterranean. Government Deputy Spokesperson Sebastian Hille announced at a press conference in Berlin that the extension covers both NATO's SEA GUARDIAN and the European Union's IRINI operation, with both mandates extended until November 30, 2027.
The decision still requires approval from the Federal Parliament (Bundestag) before it can take effect. Hille emphasized that Germany's involvement in the two operations contributes to maritime security and stability in Europe's southern neighborhood.
In terms of troop numbers, the maximum personnel deployable to the SEA GUARDIAN operation will be reduced from 550 to 400, while the cap for the IRINI operation remains unchanged at 300 soldiers.
The German government regards the security of international maritime trade routes as a core national security interest. The Mediterranean continues to hold strategic significance as a link between the EU's southern borders and NATO's southern neighbors.
