With the Strategic Compass, the European Union has set itself a high level of ambition for its maritime security. The Compass calls for a higher level of investment in high-end naval capabilities and it underlines the importance of ongoing capability projects such as the European Patrol Corvette. The Strategic Compass also calls for the Union to be better prepared for maritime operations. Accordingly, the European Union must strive to enhance the presence of its existing naval operations in the Mediterranean and the Horn of Africa, and it must find ways to support non- European Union engagements such as Operation Agénor. Additionally, it is time for the Union to undertake more live exercises at sea, increase its number of port calls and expand its areas of maritime interest.
Études Marine, Centre d’études stratégiques de la Marine, 2022, No. 21
Daniel Fiott 