Robles congratulates the crews of the frigates 'Cristóbal Colón' and 'Méndez Núñez' for their contribution to European security

The capabilities of the navy's personnel, together with the air threat detection capabilities of the frigates 'Cristóbal Colón' and 'Méndez Núñez', have been key in the deployment to southern Cyprus, following the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East.

The Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, today visited the crews of both units, which have been integrated into the French Air-Naval Combat Group on the aircraft carrier 'Charles de Gaulle', and reiterated that "Spain's contribution to security and stability, as well as our commitment to any peacekeeping mission, is beyond any doubt".

The Spanish presence has contributed significantly to guaranteeing the security of Europe's south-eastern flank and sustaining Allied freedom of action in the eastern Mediterranean.

The minister expressed her gratitude for the work, responsibility, and professionalism of the frigate crews, who have been supporting the French ship for just over two months.

"Ferrol, Galicia and all of Spain have ample reason to be proud of all of you and the Navy", said Robles, who added that "we are in a very difficult international moment, in which our Armed Forces are more than proving themselves capable wherever their presence is required".

High availability and readiness

The frigates 'Cristóbal Colón' and 'Méndez Núñez' belong to the 31st surface squadron, which has 1,300 personnel, two supply ships ('Patiño' and 'Cantabria') and five frigates of the 'Álvaro de Bazán' class.

This squadron is characterised by its flexibility, adaptability and interoperability, together with the high availability and readiness of its personnel.

Non official translation