The ‘Atlantic Deployment 26’ Expeditionary Strike Group trains whilst en route to the United States

The Spanish force — comprising five Navy ships and some 2,500 personnel — is integrating all its capabilities in preparation for participation in the international exercise FLEETEX-250

The ‘Atlantic Deployment 26’ Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is enhancing its readiness through various exercises and training activities whilst en route to the United States to take part in the international exercise FLEETEX-250.

Specifically, they are carrying out flight qualifications and training, boarding and search drills, combat drills, man-overboard exercises, cargo and personnel transfer, refuelling, live-fire exercises, abseiling, as well as urban combat exercises.

The GCE ‘Atlantic Deployment 26’, which set sail from Spain at the end of May, comprises the Amphibious Ship ‘Castilla’, the Strategic Projection Ship ‘Juan Carlos I’, the frigates ‘Blas de Lezo’ and ‘Reina Sofía’, and the Combat Supply Ship ‘Patiño’.

The Spanish Expeditionary Combat Group is commanded by the commander of the High Readiness Maritime Headquarters (CGMAD) and the Spanish Maritime Forces Headquarters (SPMARFOR), together with the commander of the Fleet Projection Group, the Deputy Commander of the Tercio Armada and the Commander of the 31st Surface Squadron.

Also on board is a Reinforced Marine Landing Battalion with 75 vehicles, which includes a section of Italian Marines, 12 amphibious craft, SH60 ‘Seahawk’ and H135 ‘Nival’ helicopters from the Navy, and HT-27 ‘Cougar’ and HA-28 ‘Tigre’ helicopters from the Army. This also provides electronic warfare capabilities, tactical cameras, unmanned aerial systems, and fire support acquisition and control. Furthermore, personnel from the Air and Space Force and from allied countries such as Portugal, Italy, the United States, France, Turkey and Latvia are participating.

Through ‘Atlantic Deployment 26’, Spain demonstrates its commitment to the Atlantic Alliance, contributing to NATO’s deterrence and defence by providing highly qualified personnel and resources. It is capable of projecting an expeditionary force at sea and from the sea.