Spanish Land Operational Command Deploys Patrols in Ibiza to Enhance Protection of the Island Area

• A platoon from Palma Infantry Regiment No. 47 has been conducting reconnaissance activities on the island for one week

A platoon from Palma Infantry Regiment No. 47, based in Palma de Mallorca, was deployed to the island of Ibiza to conduct foot, motorised patrols and reconnaissance tasks throughout the city. The aim of the deployment was to enhance surveillance and protection. These activities are conducted within the framework of the Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations, which are carried out on a permanent basis throughout the national territory.

According to Lieutenant Jorge García Selam, platoon commander of the deployed unit, the primary mission of these deployments is to ensure presence on the ground, something that also “allows us to engage with the civilian population during our activities, giving us the opportunity to explain our work, which is focused on their safety and protection.”

During these permanent operations, the various participating units progressively acquire situational awareness of the operational environment while simultaneously strengthening their relationship with the island’s residents. “This interaction with the civilian population usually takes place as we move through local communities, particularly during dismounted patrols. Although the population’s initial reaction is often one of surprise, it quickly turns into cordiality and appreciation for our work,” Lieutenant García explains.

The Land Operational Command and Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations

The Land Operational Command, under the command of Lieutenant General Julio Salom Herrera, is the Armed Forces body responsible for the planning, conduct and monitoring of these operations, which are executed under the operational control of the Operations Command.

Together with the Land Operational Command, the Maritime, Air, Space and Cyber Operational Commands form the structure of the Permanent Operational Commands. On a daily basis, around 850 personnel of the Armed Forces are involved in these permanent operations, all conducted under the operational control of the Operations Command.

The Presence, Surveillance and Deterrence Operations constitute an effective tool for maintaining continuous surveillance of areas of national sovereignty. They enable the early detection of potential threats and facilitate an immediate and credible response to any potential crisis.