The frigate “Bayern” set sail on Monday, her destination is a sea area that is now known as the Indo-Pacific.
The mission is clear: with its maritime presence, Germany wants to show its firm will to strengthen its commitment in the region.
That is right and overdue.
Because their geopolitical and economic importance for the coming decades is obvious.
It is also necessary to signal to China that its illegal claims to immense sea areas will not simply be accepted.
The aggressive expansion of the Chinese claim to rule and control alarms many trading nations, threatens the freedom of seafaring and Western security concerns.
A symbol, no more, no less
If the "Bayern" is to cross the South China Sea in a few months, on the usual trade route, the Chinese leadership should understand the message.
She will not be afraid of it.
The whole thing is symbolic in nature, nothing more, nothing less.
For Germany, the proverbial flag waving in this part of the world is something new that will undoubtedly be welcomed by its partners there.
In addition, the use of this symbolism is limited, because a frigate will not put China in its place. Incidentally, this also applies to the British association, which is on its way to the Indo-Pacific. In military terms, Europeans are and will remain primarily responsible for Europe's security.