Offshore patrol vessel 'Infanta Cristina' begins a maritime surveillance mission in areas under national sovereignty

• The Spanish Navy ship is integrated into the Maritime Operational Command (MOM) under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS).

The offshore patrol boat 'Infanta Cristina' set sail to carry out a surveillance and security mission in maritime areas under national sovereignty as part of the standing operations of the Armed Forces.

During its deployment, the 'Infanta Cristina' will be integrated into the Maritime Operational Command (MOM), under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS).

The ship set sail with a crew of 79 military personnel, including an Operational Security Team (EOS) belonging to the Tercio de Levante.

The main mission of the patrol boat 'Infanta Cristina' is to carry out surveillance and maritime security operations in areas of national sovereignty. In addition, it collaborates and supports other public organizations in controlling maritime traffic, fishing surveillance and the search and rescue of shipwrecked people.

Maritime Operational Command (MOM)

The MOM is the body of the operational structure of the Armed Forces, under the Chief of Defence Staff (JEMAD), 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.

Built as the fourth corvette belonging to the "Descubierta" class by Empresa Nacional Bazán in Cartagena, it was commissioned to the Spanish Navy on 24 November 1980, and the National Flag was hoisted on board for the first time by H.R.H. Doña Cristina. Between September 2004 and June 2005 it was upgraded to offshore patrol (P-77). It is based in Cartagena.