Source: European Union 2 Published on: 2026-05-14
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 • Agency for Maritime and Coastal Services • Agency for Agriculture and Fisheries • Scientific Service MUMM (Institute of Natural Sciences) • Directorate-General Environment (Federal Public Service Public Health) • Directorate-General Shipping (Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport) • Maritime and River Police • Secretariat General for the Sea • La Manche and North Sea Maritime Prefecture • Directorate General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture • Netherlands Coast Guard • IL&T (Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate) • Categories Latest News • Tags Coast Guard Functions | Coast Guard Cooperation Recently published news