The minehunters “Segura” and “Tajo” complete seabed survey operations in the vicinity of the Canary archipelago

• These missions are carried out in the main Spanish ports on a regular basis with the aim of updating the databases of seabed contacts.

The Spanish Navy minehunter “Segura” (M-31) and “Tajo” (M-36) have sailed through the waters of the Canary Islands archipelago to carry out seabed reconnaissance in the vicinity of different ports in the Canary Islands. This mission is carried out within the framework of the Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations of the Armed Forces, with the ship integrated into the Maritime Operational Command (MOM) and under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS). Currently, the minehunters have begun their navigation in demand of the port of Casablanca on their route to Cartagena.

Mine Counter Measures (MCM) operations at port accesses are a routine activity carried out periodically in the main Spanish ports to update databases of seabed contacts, which is of great importance for a better knowledge of our seas, as well as contributing to the protection of underwater heritage. In carrying out these activities, it is necessary to establish, monitor and comply with strict safety precautions with respect to maritime traffic, especially to avoid interference with the normal operation of the entry and exit of ships in ports.

Segura' and “Tajo” minehunters

The minehunters “Segura” and “Tajo” belong to the 1st Minesweeper Squadron, which is based at the Cartagena Military Arsenal. The crew of both ships is made up of 42 sailors, who form a specialised team for detecting, classifying and destroying/disabling submerged explosive devices. To this end, each minehunter has great manoeuvrability, variable depth sonar and two underwater vehicles as the main means to complete this task. 

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.