In a significant maritime defense operation, the French frigate FREMM Languedoc successfully intercepted and neutralized a drone attack by the Houthi forces targeting the Norwegian oil tanker M/T Strinda in the Red Sea on the night of December 11th. The tanker also came under a cruise missile attack from the Houthis, which resulted in a fire.
According to a press release issued by the French Ministry of Defense, the Strinda faced a complex aerial assault originating from Yemen, leading to the commercial vessel being hit. Responding swiftly to the emergency, the French FREMM Languedoc, which was patrolling the area, engaged and destroyed a drone posing an immediate and new threat to the tanker.
Following the interception, the French frigate took up a combat position around the tanker, preventing any attempts at piracy. Subsequently, the fire on the vessel was contained without any reported injuries.
In a coordinated effort to ensure the safety of the Strinda, the USS Mason, an American destroyer, escorted the tanker to the Gulf of Aden, moving it away from the danger zone. This update follows our previous report based on the announcement by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) regarding the incident.
It is also important to note that the French Frigate FREMM Languedoc recently opened fire with ASTER-15 missiles against Houthi drones in the Red Sea targeting the vessel.
This incident highlights the ongoing maritime security challenges in the Red Sea region and the crucial role of international naval forces in maintaining safe passage for commercial shipping amidst regional conflicts.
