EMSA Opens 2026 Multipurpose Maritime Operation in La Manche and the Southern North Sea

Date

Published

13.05.2026

Updated

13.05.2026

On 11 May 2026, EMSA launched the 2026 Multipurpose Maritime Operation (MMO) in La Manche and the Southern North Sea, marking the third consecutive EMSA-led MMO in this strategically important region and the most comprehensive to date.

The online opening session brought together representatives from Belgium, France and the Netherlands, alongside the European Commission, EFCA and Frontex. A significant milestone for this edition is the first-time participation of the Netherlands and Frontex, reflecting the growing confidence in and reach of the European cooperative framework for coast guard functions.

Over the next four months, 11 national authorities and three EU agencies will collaborate across nine coast guard functions and more than 30 use cases. La Manche is the world's busiest ocean shipping lane, with approximately 500 SOLAS vessels transiting daily through one of Europe's most strategically important, complex and environmentally sensitive maritime areas. Eight coordination centres are involved in the operation, pooling assets and shared resources to address real operational needs.

Operational support will span all key maritime dimensions, including satellite oil spill detection via CleanSeaNet, 80 days of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) operations, surface assets including an EFCA offshore patrol vessel and Frontex co-financed maritime and aerial surveillance assets and standing corps, as well as ROV deployments for underwater surveys. Analytical tools will support national authorities throughout, with all activity reported in a live centralised dashboard.

The operation underlines EMSA's commitment to supporting and connecting the authorities responsible for protecting Europe's maritime space - a shared responsibility that requires close, sustained cooperation across borders and institutions.

Participating Authorities

Belgium