Marine Corps begins its third rotation in Romania

•  The Spanish contingent, as part of the Multinational Battlegroup, consolidates its presence on the eastern flank of the Alliance and reaffirms its commitment to collective defence and regional security

The Marine Corps (FIMAR in Spanish) has begun its third rotation in Romania following the Transfer of Authority (TOA) ceremony, which was held at the Cincu base. The Spanish contingent, as part of this Multinational Battlegroup, consolidates its presence on the eastern flank of the Alliance and reaffirms its commitment to collective defence and regional security.

The handover ceremony, presided over by Colonel Segundo Martínez Martínez, representing the Commander of Operations (CMOPS), began with a review of the force in formation, composed of military personnel from France, Belgium and Romania, as well as Spain.

Subsequently, NATO international decorations and awards were presented to those members of the second contingent who had distinguished themselves in the performance of their duties, in recognition of their professionalism and dedication.

The highlight of the ceremony was the greeting between the outgoing commander, Rafael Mena López, and the transfer of authority to the incoming commander, Manuel de Castro Martín, which symbolises the transfer of authority in the Multinational Battlegroup in Romania. At the same time, this ceremony demonstrates the camaraderie and friendship between the commanders, which reflects the spirit of cooperation.

Colonel Martínez then gave a speech in which he emphasised the importance of multinational commitment within the framework of NATO and the relevance of cohesion among allies to guarantee collective security. Finally, the solemn Marine Corps anthem was performed by the forces present as a symbol of identity, tradition and institutional pride.

After six months of international deployment, the second rotation returns home with the satisfaction of having fulfilled its duty: to increase the protection of the alliance's eastern flank. During this time, more than 200 marines have carried out intense operational activity, participating in combined exercises with forces from different allied countries. In all of them, the Spanish military has demonstrated a high level of preparedness, discipline and adaptability.

Deployment of NATO ground forces in Romania

The Multinational Battlegroup (MN BG) in Romania, also known as the Forward Land Forces (FLF) BG, is one of eight similar units deployed along the eastern flank of the Atlantic Alliance, providing a significant reinforcement to deterrence and defence in this area.

Until September 2024, Spain's contribution of forces to these multinational units present in NATO countries in Eastern Europe took the form of the Multinational Battlegroup in Latvia and the Multinational Brigade Task Force in Slovakia, the latter led by Spain. From then on, Spain's contribution will be complemented by a Marine Corps Tactical Subgroup to the MN BG in Romania.

In Romania, the deployment of the third FIMAR contingent demonstrates Spain's commitment to the security of the alliance and enhances interoperability with our allies, thus contributing to stability and deterrence in south-eastern Europe.