The frigates ‘Navarra’ and ‘Cristóbal Colón’ have joined NATO’s Standing Naval Group No. 2

 Following their stopover in Naples, the vessels are continuing their surveillance operations in the eastern Atlantic, in line with Spain’s international commitments

The frigates ‘Navarra’ (F-85) and ‘Cristóbal Colón’ (F-105), together with the commander of the Navy’s 41st Escort Squadron (COMANDES-41) and his staff, are setting sail to join NATO’s Standing Naval Group No. 2 (SNMG-2), where they will take part in the ‘Mare Aperto’ manoeuvres and in activities with the Hellenic Navy. Subsequently, they will take part in the ‘Neptune Strike 26.4’ (NEST 26.4) exercise, which will enhance their readiness to operate in a combined manner in a variety of naval scenarios.

The port call in Naples provided a setting for defence diplomacy activities and for strengthening relations with allied countries. Following the ship’s docking, Captain Rafael Mira Calvo (COMANDES-41), together with the commanders of the frigates ‘Navarra’ and ‘Cristóbal Colón’, welcomed aboard the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral General Antonio Piñero Sánchez; and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to the Italian Republic, Miguel Ángel Fernández-Palacios Martínez.

During their time on board, they were given an operational briefing on the mission’s objectives, as well as a lunch on board, alongside other civil and military authorities.

At sunset, a solemn flag-lowering ceremony took place and a reception was held on board to mark the National Day celebrations. The reception was attended by various authorities and international dignitaries, including the Chief of the Italian Navy and the Commander of the Joint Force Command (JFC) in Naples. The host authorities addressed the crews and guests. The AJEMA noted that “the Spanish Navy and the Italian Navy are committed to security in the Mediterranean”.

On Sunday, a Mass was held on board the frigate ‘Navarra’, to which the entire Spanish community living in Naples was invited.

To round off the port call, COMANDES-41, together with the commanders of the frigates ‘Navarra’ and ‘Cristóbal Colón’, paid courtesy visits to Naples City Council and the Prefecture of Naples. “Naples and Spain share a common history, and it is important for us to welcome the Spanish Navy,” said the Prefect of Naples, Michele Bari.

These defence diplomacy activities strengthen cooperation on maritime security in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean.

NAVAL PRESENCE, ALLIED CO-OPERATION AND DEFENCE DIPLOMACY

The frigates ‘Navarra’ (F-85) and ‘Cristóbal Colón’ (F-105) are sailing in the Mediterranean Sea, the Gulf of Cádiz, the eastern Atlantic and the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. This deployment will continue until 2 November and, during this period, the ships will provide support as part of Operation Sea Guardian, take part in ‘Noble Shield’ and carry out protection, surveillance and deterrence operations.

Operation Sea Guardian, in which Spain has been participating since 2017, contributes to understanding the maritime environment, supports the fight against terrorism and helps build regional maritime security capabilities.

Spain’s active, effective and supportive participation within NATO, alongside our allies, helps to promote collective security in the face of global threats. Spain’s commitment to NATO ensures that the high level of readiness, professionalism and responsibility of the Spanish Armed Forces is recognised.

The joint deployment of the ‘Navarra’ and the ‘Cristóbal Colón’ makes it possible to capitalise on the complementary capabilities of both vessels and to enhance training amongst Navy escorts.

The deployment forms part of the Navy’s ongoing activity to maintain units that are ready and deployable, to contribute to Spain’s international commitments, and to strengthen its presence, surveillance and deterrence in maritime areas of interest.