The NATO naval force in the Atlantic, led by Spain, is conducting training exercises with the Japanese and Canadian navies

• ‘Atlantic Deployment 26’, in its new role as Commander Task Force Atlantic, is strengthening interoperability with allied and friendly nations whilst sailing at Iceland’s request

Commander Task Force Atlantic (CTF Atlantic) — a NATO body responsible for planning and conducting maritime activities in the North Atlantic, and led by Spain — has carried out joint exercises with vessels from the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Royal Canadian Navy (Royal Canadian Navy – RCN).

Having taken command of CTF Atlantic, Vice-Admiral Juan Bautista Pérez Puig, commander of the Spanish Maritime Forces Headquarters (SPMARFOR) — as well as commanding the naval units of the ‘Atlantic Deployment’ — leads other units, which include representatives from Portugal, Latvia, Lithuania, Türkiye, the United States, Italy, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Poland, the United Kingdom and Germany.

In total, around 3,000 sailors form part of the NATO naval task force (CTF Atlantic), which contributes to surveillance, deterrence and defence in the North Atlantic and will remain active throughout July.

The CTF-Atlantic has carried out anti-aircraft and electronic warfare exercises, amongst others, as well as at-sea refuelling operations with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force vessels ‘Kashima’ and ‘Yamagiri’. During this joint training exercise, a number of second midshipmen – future Navy officers – embarked on the Japanese vessels, thereby fostering mutual understanding between the two navies.

They have also taken part in anti-submarine, surface, anti-aircraft and live-fire exercises alongside the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS ‘St. John’. This joint training enhances mutual understanding, promotes deterrence and reinforces the allies’ shared commitment to maritime security. 

Having taken part in the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Spanish naval force ‘Despliegue Atlántico 26’ is sailing towards Iceland, continuing its surveillance and deterrence activities between the east coast of the United States and Europe.

Commander Task Force Atlantic

Spain currently holds command of the NATO structure responsible for planning and conducting maritime operations in the North Atlantic, known as ‘Commander Task Force Atlantic’ (CTF Atlantic). It will continue to fulfil this role until 30 June 2027.

During July, this allied naval task force will operate between the east coast of the United States and Europe within the Atlantic areas of responsibility: from Canada to Europe, including the waters off Greenland, Iceland, the United Kingdom and Norway. 

The North Atlantic is a vital area that contains trade routes, submarine cables and energy infrastructure. The presence of the Atlantic Task Force ensures deterrence and freedom of navigation for millions of European citizens. This mission reaffirms Spain’s commitment to maritime security, collective defence and strengthening interoperability with allies, whilst protecting and safeguarding shared interests with its partners and allies and contributing to the Alliance’s deterrence and defence capabilities.