The OPV ‘Rayo’ concludes its long-term maritime security operation in the Alboran Sea

•  The Navy vessel concludes two months of operations, having sailed more than 9,400 nautical miles and achieved the historic milestone of operating the ‘Scan Eagle’ drone from its deck for the first time

The Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) ‘Rayo’ has completed its handover to the joint operational structure following the conclusion of a long-term maritime security mission. The vessel operated under the tactical command of the Maritime Operational Command (MOM) in the waters of the Alboran Sea and the Strait of Gibraltar, and under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS).

Over the past two months, the ‘Rayo’s’ main mission has been to enhance situational awareness of the maritime environment, maintain a presence and act as a deterrent, and ensure maximum readiness to act within waters under national sovereignty.

The Navy patrol vessel has carried out intensive maritime surveillance operations both in territorial waters and within Spain’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The deployment has also included an active presence in the waters adjacent to the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, as well as at the Rock of Vélez de la Gomera, Al Hoceima, the Chafarinas Islands and the islet of Perejil.

Furthermore, as part of its deterrence missions, the OPV ‘Rayo’ has monitored vessels of the Russian Federation Navy whilst they were transiting through waters of national interest.

Between 11 and 27 April, the vessel combined its duties with Operation ‘Enhanced Surveillance’ in Atlantic waters. This period marked a historic milestone for the Navy, as it operated the ‘Scan Eagle’ unmanned aerial system from an Offshore Patrol Vessel for the first time, accumulating more than 40 hours of operational flight time.

In mid-May, the ‘Rayo’ made a logistical stopover at the Rota Naval Base. During this stay, the crew took the opportunity to undertake rigorous training at the Internal Security Training Centre, strengthening their capabilities in command and control of internal security, as well as conducting joint exercises with the squadrons of the Aircraft Flotilla.

This operation forms part of the Armed Forces’ permanent missions aimed at ensuring maritime security, preserving freedom of navigation and contributing to the surveillance of areas of national interest.