The new logistic transport vessel 'El Camino Español' completes its first international logistics transport in support to UNIFIL

• The ship has arrived in Cadiz after providing logistical support to the Spanish contingent deployed to the United Nations mission in southern Lebanon from the port of Beirut

With its arrival at the port of Cádiz, the Logistics Transport Vessel (LTV) "El Camino Españo" has completed its first international logistics journey for Army units since entering service in January 2024, replacing its predecessor and namesake, which had been carrying out that mission for twenty years. On this occasion, the vessel provided essential support for the relief of Army contingents deployed in Operation "Libre Hidalgo" as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission.

After departing Almería on May 25, the "El Camino Español" docked at the port of Beirut with a significant cargo of containerized materials, as well as various types of vehicles. The handling of both containers and roll-on/roll-off cargo was satisfactory, confirming the vessel's compatibility for operating in the Lebanese capital's port facilities.

In addition to the support material for the Spanish contingent, the ship has delivered to Beirut a significant shipment of humanitarian aid, sourced from civilian donations in Spain, which will be distributed by the Spanish forces in Lebanon.

The stay in port was also marked by various social activities, such as the celebration of Armed Forces Day (DIFAS) 2025 at the Spanish Embassy in Lebanon; and diplomatic activities, such as the ambassador's visit to the ship, where he was able to see its capabilities and facilities firsthand, converse with the crew, and, finally, sign the ship's Book of Honor as a reminder of his time on board.

Finally, during its Mediterranean transits, the ship has been involved in support activities associated with Operation Sea Guardian, as well as various onboard exercises, in which its crew has increased their readiness and training.

BTL 'The Spanish Way'

'El Camino Español' is a Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) logistics vessel, which was commissioned in January 2024 on the Official List of Ships of the Navy, which is responsible for its operation. To this end, it has a crew of 52 Navy men and women. Since its commissioning, its main mission has been the logistical support of extra-peninsular units of the Army, as well as contingents deployed on operations. Among its many capabilities, it can reach a maximum sailing speed of 22 knots; and its three decks can hold more than 1,700 linear meters of roll-on/roll-off cargo and up to 300 20 TEU containers.