Patrol boat 'Atalaya' carries out a surveillance and security operation in maritime areas of national sovereignty

• The Navy ship will remain at the port of Motril, on September 24 and 25

Offshore patrol vessel 'Atalaya' set sail on September 16 from its Ferrol home base, to take part in a maritime surveillance and security operation in areas of national sovereignty interest. It is integrated into the Maritime Operations Command (MOM) under operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS), within the Armed Forces’ standing operations and in coordination with the Maritime Action Operations and Surveillance Centre (COVAM in Spanish), located in Cartagena.

The Navy ship will remain in the Graneles dock, at the port of Motril, on September 24 and 25. There will be an open day for visits on Saturday, September the 24th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Sunday, September the 25th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Offshore patrol vessel 'Atalaya'

Among the tasks of this ship is the naval presence and the surveillance and control of maritime areas of sovereignty and national interest, verifying that international regulations are complied with, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This Navy vessel also carries out protection tasks of submerged archaeological heritage and the fishing community in Spanish waters.

The offshore patrol vessel 'Atalaya' supports NATO's 'Sea Guardian' or EU's 'FRONTEX-INDALO' operations against human trafficking.

The 'Atalaya', commanded by Lieutenant Commander Ramón Leste León, is the fourth unit of the “Serviola” class. During its thirty years of service, it has taken part, among others, in operations such as 'Africa Partner Ship', 'Noble Centinela', 'Indalo' and multiple maritime traffic control operations.

Maritime Operational Command (MOM)

The Maritime Operational Command is the body within the operational structure of the Armed Forces, subordinated to the Chief of Defence Staff, responsible for planning, conducting and monitoring surveillance and security operations in maritime areas of sovereignty, responsibility and national interest. It is under the command of the Admiral for Maritime Action (ALMART) based in Cartagena.

Surveillance and deterrence Standing Operations

Surveillance and deterrence Standing Operations are an effective tool for maintaining surveillance of sovereign spaces, enabling early threat detection and enabling an immediate and effective response to a potential crisis.

The traditional Land Operational Command (MOT), Maritime (MOM), Aerospace (MOA) and the recently established Cyberspace (MOC) make up the Standing Command structure. On a daily basis, about 3,000 Armed Forces personnel are involved in permanent operations, under the operational control of the Operations Command.