Control and protection of the airspace, undertaken by the Armed Forces

• The Air Operational Command (MOA) leads the comprehensive security framework implemented by the Secretary of State for Security throughout the Pope’s visit to Spain. This support is primarily provided through the control and monitoring of the airspace

The aim is to provide robust coverage in the sectors and timeframes of the papal visit, also taking into account close coordination with the State Security Forces and Corps (FCSE) for the joint use of air assets and counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS).

The tactical control of the skies will involve the participation of the Central Command and Control Group (GRUCEMAC), the Northern Command and Control Group (GRUNOMAC) and the Surveillance and Control Group (GRUALERCON).

With this deployment, the Armed Forces reaffirm their commitment as an institution at the service of the State, whose personnel work daily in the permanent surveillance of areas of sovereignty (land, air, maritime, cyberspace and space) in order to preserve the security, freedom and way of life of the Spanish people.