Nikos Dendias: The frigate “Hydra” did what was sent to the Red Sea

The frigate “Hydra” did what had to do against enemy UAVs, defending free navigation in , stressed . The Minister of National Defence also referred to the strategic role of Alexandroupolis. An interview was given by the Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias and spoke about the latest developments regarding the Armed Forces, such as the involvement of the frigate “Hydra” in the Red Sea, but also about the strategic role Alexandroupoli plays for our national interests and within the framework of NATO. Initially, Nikos Dendias spoke of his visit to the frigate “Hydra” in the Red Sea, but also the interception of two enemy UAVs launched by the Shia rebels Huthi of Yemen bound for the Gulf of Aden, saying: “We must be clear and honest. The frigate “Hydra” went for a very specific purpose in the Gulf of Aden and to safeguard the free communication of sea routes. During a merchant ship escort, there was and remains the possibility of attempting to strike and the warship accompanying it. The frigate “Hydra” did what it had to do, namely shots at incoming UAVs, which, from the original information I have, have reversed course. Of course, I expect to read the relevant reports in order to make a complete picture. In any case, as I mentioned earlier, the frigate ‘Hydra’ did what was sent to the region. It defends in it the interests of free navigation and in general the Greek economy, the Greek citizen, the Greek consumer.” Nikos Dendias then responded to opposition reactions: “I understand any position that has an obvious ideological mark and considerations even if I do not agree with it. I also understand that it is not easy for the whole Greek society to incorporate the thought that Greek citizens, armed forces officials, are in a danger zone. But I must say that the constitutional duty of the Armed Forces is to defend our country and its interests. This is exactly what the frigate “Hydra” does in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. At the same time, its participation in Operation ASPIDS provides extremely valuable lessons. You understand that in the inevitable event of conflict in our sea zones in the future, carnations will not be launched against our ships.” Regarding the strategic role and importance of Alexandroupolis, Nikos Dendias stressed: “I think I can boast that I realized the importance of Alexandroupolis in time and before it became ‘of fashion’ the relevant finding. Its region can play a key role in the fields of Energy and Transport, as of course at the level of National Defence, EU Defence and the North Atlantic Alliance. They are shorter in Odessa than the route through the Straits. It is closer to Odessa than it is in Crete. It is also an alternative source of road to Central and Eastern Europe. It therefore has a very important role to play. The Greek State’s task is to help create these infrastructures that will facilitate its development in all these areas.” source: Onalert.gr – photos: Eurokinissi