The frigate “Numancia” accompanies the American aircraft carrier “Gerald R. Ford” during her crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar

• This voyage reinforces the collaboration between the Royal Navy and the United States Navy

The frigate Numancia, commanded by Commander Álvaro Calderón Izquierdo, escorted the combat group of the American aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during her crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar into the Atlantic Ocean.

This collaboration has strengthened and highlighted the close ties that historically unite the Spanish Navy and the United States Navy, as well as underscoring Spain's firm commitment to its allies and demonstrating the high level of preparedness, interoperability and commitment of the Spanish Armed Forces to collective defence.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is the most modern and advanced nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in the US Navy. During this transit, the aircraft carrier was accompanied by the destroyer USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), which was joined by the Numancia.

At the time of this joint navigation, the frigate was conducting presence, surveillance and deterrence operations (OPVD) in waters of sovereignty and interest, integrated into the Maritime Operational Command (MOM) and under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS). During this PSDS, the ship reinforces maritime security in the region, while improving her knowledge of the maritime environment and deterring crime at sea.

Activation of the frigate “Numancia” in the MOM

The frigate “Numancia” belongs to the 41st Escort Squadron, based at the Rota Naval Base, and is the third of her kind in a series of six frigates.

The Maritime Operational Command (MOM) is the body of the operational structure of the Armed Forces, subordinate to the Chief of Defence (JEMAD), responsible, at its level, for planning, conducting and monitoring permanent surveillance and security operations in maritime areas of sovereignty, responsibility and national interest. The MOM is commanded by Admiral Vicente Cuquerella Gamboa and is headquartered 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 Operational Command (MOT), Maritime Operational Command (MOM), Air Operational Command (MOA), Cyberspace Operational Command (MOC) and Space Operational Command (MOESPA) make up the Permanent Command structure.