The Chief of Defence visits the submarine “Isaac Peral” during her stopover in Egypt

• Almost a century has passed since the last time a Spanish submarine called at Alexandria, where it has been visited by national and Egyptian authorities

The Chief of Defence (JEMAD), Admiral Teodoro Esteban López Calderón, visited the crew of the submarine “Isaac Peral” (S-81) during her stopover in Alexandria, Egypt. The submarine is part of NATO's maritime security operation “Sea Guardian” (OSG).

It had been 91 years since a Spanish submarine last docked at an Egyptian port. During the stopover, the ship's crew welcomed aboard not only the Chief of Defence, but also the Spanish Ambassador to Cairo, Sergio Román Carranza Förster, and the Admiral of the Egyptian Navy, among other authorities.

Lieutenant Commander Fernando Clavijo Rey-Stolle, together with the guard of honour, welcomed the Chief of Defence aboard the submarine, followed by the rest of the authorities. The delegation had the opportunity to learn about the submarine's technological capabilities and resources to carry out her missions in the most effective and efficient manner possible.

In the command and control room, the nerve centre of the submarine's operations, Commander Clavijo detailed the submarine's advanced capabilities, as well as the distribution of personnel who establish permanent watches during navigation, in addition to addressing the main tasks of each of them.

Allied maritime security operation ‘Sea Guardian’

The deployment of the submarine Isaac Peral contributes to strengthening knowledge of the maritime environment, supporting the fight against terrorism, and building regional maritime security capabilities.

Since 2017, Spain's participation has been a demonstration of its solidarity and commitment to the fight against terrorism and security in the face of threats shared with our allies to ensure international stability. Participation in Operation Sea Guardian greatly reinforces the commitment of the Navy and Spain to the fight against terrorism and maritime security, as a reliable and committed ally of NATO.