Patrol boat Medas reinforces maritime security at the Alboran Sea

• The Navy vessel has carried out a presence, surveillance and deterrence operation for the benefit of maritime protection

Patrol boat Medas (P-26) has carried out maritime surveillance and control operations in areas of permanent interest in the waters of the Alboran Sea and its nature reserve.

During her voyage, the vessel and her crew conducted operational activities involving presence, surveillance and deterrence in fisheries and areas of the Natura 2000 network. Activities addressed to the protection of underwater archaeological heritage were also performed.

The patrol boat made friendly visits to Spanish fishing vessels in the area, which allowed for increased knowledge of maritime life patterns, as well as strengthening ties with the fishing community.

Furthermore, during this period, the Medas carried out maritime security operations in waters of permanent interest and contributed to Maritime Environment Awareness (CEM).

In parallel with her operational activity, the crew trained in multiple exercises, including shooting with portable weapons on towed targets.

Medas, under the command of Lieutenant Santiago González-Aller Rodríguez, was integrated into the Maritime Operational Command (MOM), under the operational control of the Commander of Operations (CMOPS), and maintained constant coordination with the Maritime Action Operations and Surveillance Centre (COVAM).

Once Medas completed her tasks, she returned to her home port at the Puntales Naval Station, and the patrol boat Centinela took over.

The patrol boat Medas

The patrol boat Medas is part of the Maritime Action Force which consists of units whose main task is to protect national maritime interests and control maritime areas of sovereignty. With a comprehensive approach, it ensures cooperation across the various government agencies with maritime jurisdiction, thus contributing to the State's actions at sea.

Maritime Operational Command (MOM)

The Maritime Operational Command (MOM) is the operational arm of the Armed Forces, subordinate to the Chief of Defence (JEMAD) and responsible, at its level, for planning, conducting and monitoring operations to maintain a presence, surveillance and deterrence in maritime areas of sovereignty, responsibility and national interest. It is under the command of the Admiral of Maritime Action (ALMART) 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 Operations Command (MOT), Maritime Operations Com mand (MOM), Air Operations Command (MOA), Space Operations Command (MOESPA) and Cyberspace Operations Command (MOC) make up the Permanent Commands structure. Every day, some 3,000 Armed Forces personnel are involved in permanent operations under the operational control of the Operations Command.