The frigate 'Reina Sofía' makes a port call at Antsiranana during its deployment in Operation 'Atalanta'

• The Spanish Navy ship has hosted several regional authorities and provided training to the Madagascan Navy in the areas of internal security and first aid

The frigate 'Reina Sofía' (F-84) has made a port call at the port of Antsiranana, Madagascar, during its deployment in Operation 'Atalanta', which provides surveillance and deterrence against piracy in the waters of the Indian Ocean.

During the stopover, the ship's commander, Frigate Captain Salvador Moreno Regil, carried out several official visits and invited civilian and military authorities from the region and the Madagascan city on board. These activities showcased Spain and the European Union’s commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean. Additionally, 'Reina Sofía' welcomed the Spanish community living in Madagascar on board.

Furthermore, within the framework of cooperation and strengthening relations between navies, the Spanish frigate’s crew provided training and instruction to members of the Madagascan Navy on internal security and first aid.

Operation 'Atalanta'

Operation Atalanta was the result of a series of UN resolutions adopted after the increase in acts of piracy in the Indian Ocean from 2005 onwards, and, with Spain's strong support, it became the first EU naval operation to be carried out under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). In December 2024, Operation 'Atalanta' was extended until February 2027, reflecting the achievements made and the challenges for the future.

Throughout this time, the operational area has expanded under successive mandates, and it now includes the Gulf of Aden and neighbouring countries, including the port and city of Muscat (Oman), the Somali basin, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Suez, and the Gulf of Aqaba.

Currently, under the operational control of the Commander of the Joint Operations Command, Spain contributes to Operation 'Atalanta' with approximately 350 personnel, as well as the following assets and units:

• The Operation Headquarters (OHQ) located at the Rota Naval Base.
• The frigate 'Reina Sofía'.
• An embarked helicopter.
• A Special Naval Operations Unit (SOMTU).
• A maritime reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft (DAT 'Orion') based in Djibouti, which deploys from the start of the inter-monsoonal period.
• Liaison offices located in Mogadishu (Somalia), Manama (Bahrain), Brussels (Belgium), and Victoria Harbour (Seychelles).
• A Logistics Support Unit for the operation deployed in Djibouti (Djibouti).

As a demonstration of our commitment to the security of the region, Spain has been the only European Union country to participate uninterruptedly in Operation 'Atalanta' since its launch 16 years ago.