The Greek Navy faced embarrassment after the frigate “YDRA” was left stranded in an Egyptian port for four days without fuel, resulting in a €150,000 fine. The ship was returning from a Red Sea deployment, where it participated in international missions, including efforts to counter Houthi attacks on commercial vessels. 

Reports indicate that bureaucratic delays and logistical failures led to the fuel shortage, leaving the crew unable to depart on time. The incident has sparked criticism over mismanagement within Greece’s defense logistics, raising questions about how such an oversight could occur with an active-duty warship. 

The “YDRA”, a ΜΕΚΟ 200 ΗΝ frigate, is one of Greece’s most advanced naval vessels. The fine, imposed by Egyptian authorities, adds to the operational costs of Greece’s Red Sea mission, which was already a financial strain. 

The incident highlights the need for (better?!) coordination in naval deployments…