Esbern Snare is part of the first stage of a strategic realignment within the Royal Danish Navy, which is transitioning to focus on international operations, in which Absalon-class vessels will form the backbone.

The ship is designed for command, support and anti-submarine roles, with a large ro-ro deck, and is complemented by the Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates.

[7][8] On 25 May 2021, the Danish Parliament approved plans to send HDMS Esbern Snare to boost maritime security in one of the world's top piracy hotspots - the Gulf of Guinea.

[10] On 25 November 2021, the MH-60 Seahawk helicopter operating from the frigate detected a fast-moving skiff that was heading towards several merchant ships in international waters south of Nigeria.

When later boarding MV Tonsberg, a crew member that had been shot in the leg by the pirates during their take-over was discovered and transferred to HDMS Esbern Snare for treatment.

[13] HDMS Esbern Snare was recalled home by Denmark in late February 2022 in response to the escalating Russo-Ukrainian crisis.