Frigate 'Cristóbal Colón' takes part in exercise ZEST 20

• The exercise combines advanced training on anti-aircraft warfare, surface warfare and real fire, with different weapon systems.

The Spanish frigate 'Cristóbal Colón' (F-105) started its participation, as a ship integrated in the Standing NATO Maritime Gorup 2 (SNMG-2), on exercise ZEST 20, organized by France. Its involvement will finish next Thursday, December 3.

Exercise ZEST 20 combines three advanced trainings, on anti-aircraft warfare, surface warfare and real fire, with different weapon systems. Ten surface units and 14 different types of aircraft participate in the exercise.

SNMG-2 is part of NATO's Standing Naval Forces, where allies' naval and air units are integrated. From June 2020 until June 2021, Spanish Rear Admiral Manuel Aguirre is commanding the group embarked, along with his General Staff, on the Spanish frigate 'Cristóbal Colón'.

The purpose of this naval force is to provide NATO with an immediate operational reaction capability in naval scenarios. The Spanish Navy has maintained its presence in these groups for more than thirty years.

F-105 'Cristóbal Colón'

During its integration, frigate 'Cristóbal Colón' will contribute to operations by providing a high capability for defence and air detection thanks to its AEGIS combat system and the SPY-1D (V) multifunction radar.

Its crew is made up of more than 220 men and women, and a squad of marines as Security Team, a SH-60B helicopter and the Commander's Staff. Ship's Commander is Frigate captain Juan Bautista Payá Martínez.