Frigate Méndez Núñez conducts operational and diplomatic activities in Mumbai

• The Spanish ship and her crew carry out joint naval exercises with the Indian Navy to increase interoperability

Frigate Méndez Núñez F-104 has docked in the port of Mumbai (India), where she has carried out operational and defence diplomacy activities with civil and military authorities, as well as with the Spanish community in the country.

Before arriving in port, the Spanish ship took part in a day of training at sea with the Indian Navy frigate INS Teg. This exercise included replenishment manoeuvres at sea, formation manoeuvres, helicopter operations and gunnery practice. This has increased interoperability between the two navies.

After docking in Mumbai, the Méndez Núñez was welcomed by local authorities and representatives of the Indian Navy, who had the opportunity to visit the frigate to see her capabilities and facilities first-hand, as well as to share reflections with the Spanish ship's crew. That same afternoon, an official reception was held on the flight deck, bringing together Indian Navy officers, diplomatic representatives and members of the Spanish community residing in the city of Mumbai.

In addition, a cross-visit was made to the host ship, the destroyer INS Kochi, where Spanish mariners were able to share their experiences at sea with their Indian counterparts. Finally, there was also an opportunity to take part in joint sporting activities as a gesture of camaraderie.

Return to Spain

At the end of April, from her base in the port of El Ferrol, the frigate Méndez Núñez set sail to join other ships from partner and allied countries in the Combat Group of the British Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. The main objective of this European initiative was to carry out complex operations while sailing together in the Indo-Pacific—as part of the Highmast deployment—to improve naval efficiency and interoperability between friendly and allied countries in the face of any threat at sea.

After months of sailing, the Spanish ship concluded her integration into the international group and began her return to Spain. It is scheduled to arrive at the Ferrol Naval Base in mid-October. Until then, there are still stops where the frigate and her crew will carry out operational and defence diplomacy activities.