The AOR “Cantabria” supports the “Dédalo 25-3” deployment during her return voyage to Spain

•  On her return journey, the naval group provided medical support on the high seas to another Spanish-flagged vessel

The Auxiliary Oiler Replenisher (AOR) “Cantabria” has completed her logistical support for the Expeditionary Combat Group “Dédalo 25-3”, which is currently finishing her voyage from the east coast of the United States.

This support has mainly enabled the units to be supplied with fuel, thus avoiding an intermediate stopover during their crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. Three refuelling manoeuvres have been carried out at sea, supplying more than 1.2 million litres of diesel. In addition, this interaction has enabled other exercises to be carried out, such as solid supply manoeuvres and communications exercises.

On the other hand, days before the visit of the Cantabria, during her return to national territory, the frigate Canarias, during her routine operations of friendly approaches to Spanish-flagged vessels, provided support to the tanker Rioja Knutsen.

Specifically, the Rioja Knutsen reported that a member of her crew had a medical problem. In order to provide the best possible assistance, the Canarias contacted the amphibious assault ship Galicia (L-51), which has a full medical team on board.

Through the established coordination channels, a remote medical consultation was organised via video call, during which the patient was assessed directly by officers from the Military Health Corps. Following a clinical evaluation, the doctors determined the treatment, without considering evacuation necessary. Throughout the day, the medical team on the Galicia remained in contact to ensure the patient's favourable progress.

This episode reflects the Spanish Navy's commitment to the safety and well-being of the maritime community, putting her capabilities and medical resources at the service of those in need on the high seas.

Dédalo 25-3 heading to Spain

The Expeditionary Combat Group “Dédalo 25-3”, comprising the amphibious assault ship LPD “Galicia” (L-51) and the frigates “Almirante Juan de Borbón” (F-102) and “Canarias” (F-86), plans to arrive in Rota, Spain, at the end of this week.

The LPD Galicia has a Reinforced Marine Infantry Landing Battalion on board, formed by the Second Battalion of the Marine Infantry Brigade, and two SH60F troop transport helicopters. For her part, the frigate “Canarias” (F-86) has an SH60B helicopter for anti-submarine and surface warfare.

On the other hand, and in order to increase maritime security and strengthen Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) capabilities, two Security Operational Teams (EOS) from the Navy Protection Force have been integrated: the EOS from the Southern Brigade, embarked on the F-86; and the EOS from the Canary Islands Security Unit, embarked on the L-51.

The deployment of the GCE reinforces the role of our Armed Forces on the international stage, while demonstrating their commitment and active contribution to NATO's deterrence and defence, and therefore to Spain's.