European Allies Deploy Forces to Support Operation Epic Fury

Several European allies are joining Operation Epic Fury in a defensive role to help protect Cyprus and regional partners as the conflict continues.

Countries including France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Netherlands and the United Kingdom are deploying naval ships and air-defense assets to the eastern Mediterranean. Their mission focuses on protecting key shipping routes, military bases and regional partners from potential Iranian threats.

Greece has sent two frigates and four F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets to strengthen defenses around Cyprus. The United States is also using Naval Support Activity Souda Bay in Crete as a key hub for refueling, logistics and intelligence operations supporting forces moving toward the Middle East.

Additional support is coming from bases in Italy, where U.S. and NATO facilities are handling transport flights, surveillance missions and aerial refueling. European warships from several nations are also patrolling the eastern Mediterranean to safeguard shipping lanes.

Officials say the deployments are focused on defensive protection of allies, bases and trade routes while the United States leads offensive operations in the conflict.