The OPV, a unit from Canary Islands’ Maritime Action Force, will conduct maritime security activities, surveillance and support of international operations
The Offshore Patrol Vessel ‘Rayo’ (P-42) departed on August 1st from the Las Palmas Arsenal to begin a deployment of more than three months along the West coast of Africa and the Gulf of Guinea, reinforcing maritime security and the Spanish presence in this strategic region.
As part of the Maritime Action Force of the Canary Islands, the ‘Rayo’ will carry out maritime surveillance and security missions, international cooperation activities and will provide support to ongoing joint operations, contributing to the interests of Spain and the European Union in a key area of the African continent. This deployment is part of the EU’s initiative ‘Coordinated Maritime Presence’ (CMP), aimed at strengthening maritime security, cooperation with coastal states, and international stability through the coordination of European navies.
The ship’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant-Commander José Antonio Parejo, asserted: “the main purpose of this deployment is to contribute to boosting the capabilities of coastal countries to control their own waters through joint training exercises. Our presence reflects the commitment of Spain to European and international security, and allows for the establishment of relations based on mutual trust with the countries of the region.”
During her deployment, the ship will collaborate with eight countries in the Gulf of Guinea, conducting defense diplomacy activities in support of Spanish embassies. To strengthen her surveillance duties, the ship has embarked ‘Airfox’ aerial drones (UAVs), enhancing the range provided by the Navy’s fleet helicopters. “Through surveillance patrols, and a detailed awareness of the maritime domain, the ‘Rayo’ will contribute to increase the security of sea lines of communication, protecting Spanish interests in the region, including shipping companies and fishing industries,” added Lt-Cdr. Parejo.
OPV ‘Rayo’ (P-42)
The ‘Rayo’ is the second unit in a series of four Offshore Patrol Vessels (BAM in its Spanish initials) normally stationed in the Canary Islands’ Naval Command. These vessels are designed to protect and control sovereign waters and collaborate with other State Constabulary Forces with responsibilities in the maritime domain, such as the fight against drug smuggling and terrorism.
The OPV also performs shipping control, fisheries surveillance, and pollution prevention duties. She has a crew of 79 people – 68 men and 11 women – including a Marine Corps’ Security Team, divers, intelligence analysts, interpreters, and a medical officer.
The ‘Rayo’ has ample experience in international operations such as ‘Atalanta’ in the Indian Ocean, ‘Sophia’ in the Mediterranean, and as command ship of some of NATO’s standing groups. With this deployment, the P-42 strengthens the Spanish presence in this strategic area. Lt-Cdr. Parejo underlines that “to lead a mission of this nature is an honor and a responsibility. It involves making decisions that guarantee the safety of the crew and the effectiveness of the mission, and at the same time, it is satisfying to know that, together, we are fulfilling an essential role for the security and prosperity of Spain.”
Maritime Operational Command
The Maritime Operational Command is the operational organization of the Armed Forces, subordinate to the Chief of the Defense Staff (JEMAD), responsible for planning, conducting, and monitoring permanent surveillance and security operations in maritime areas of national responsibility, sovereignty and interest. It is under command of the Maritime Action Admiral (ALMART) with headquarters in Cartagena (Murcia).
Permanent Operations of Surveillance and Deterrence
The deployment of the ‘Rayo’ is part of the Permanent Operations of Surveillance and Deterrence, which allow for the control of strategic areas, early detection of threats, and immediate response. The Permanent Command structure of the Armed Forces’ Operations Command located in Madrid are made up of the Army Operational Command, the Maritime Operational Command, the Aerospace Operational Command and the Cyberspace Operational Command.
With her presence in the Gulf of Guinea, the OPV ‘Rayo’ joins the international endeavors to guarantee freedom of navigation, protecting shipping from illicit activities such as piracy and smuggling, and strengthening Spain’s cooperation with its African and European allies and partners in an area of great strategic significance.
