Europe to set up anti-piracy patrol
The European Union agreed to launch an anti-piracy naval operation off the coast of Somalia involving warships and aircraft from several nations.
The first such naval operation ever mounted by the 27-member EU, it will initially involve three warships, from Greece, Britain and France, and two surveillance aircraft from France and Spain.
The naval force will be joined by a fourth ship from Germany upon approval by the German Parliament, EU officials said.
Several international naval operations are already in the area, but they have not succeeded in deterring the pirates.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
