The OPV “Serviola” is tracking Russian vessels during its Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence operation

• In the last three weeks, it has reinforced maritime security in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea, tracking Russian Federation units as they pass through Spain's exclusive economic zone

The offshore patrol vessel “Serviola” is carrying out a maritime surveillance operation in the maritime areas of national interest in the area of the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea. This mission is part of the Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations of the Armed Forces, with the vessel integrated into the Maritime Operational Command (MOM) and under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS).

During this mission, the “Serviola” tracked four convoys made up of units of the Russian Federation Navy (surface ships and submarines) and merchant vessels. In total, the ship monitored eight units, which it tracked and carried out specific intelligence tasks during their passage through maritime areas of sovereignty and national interest.

The ship is currently calling at the Rota naval base.

OPV  “Serviola”

The OPV “Serviola” is one of the patrol vessels reporting to the Commander of the Maritime Action Units in Ferrol. Its main tasks include carrying out maritime security missions, protection of national maritime interests and control of areas of sovereignty and national interest, as well as missions in collaboration with State Security Forces and Corps at sea.

In addition to its crew, the “Serviola” has also embarked a Marine Infantry Operational Security Team (EOS) from the Tercio Norte to increase its capabilities in force protection and maritime interdiction.

Maritime Operational Command (MOM)

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

Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations

Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations are an effective tool for maintaining surveillance of sovereign spaces, enabling early detection of threats and facilitating an immediate and viable response to a potential crisis.

The Land (MOT), Maritime (MOM), Air (MOA), Cyberspace (MOC) and Space (MOESPA) Operational Commands make up the Permanent Command structure. On a daily basis, there are some 3,000 Armed Forces personnel involved in these types of operations under the operational control of the Operations Command.