Spanish Navy tracks Russian submarine in Balearic waters

by Lorraine Williamson
Russian submarine in the waters of Spain

A Russian submarine, the Novorossiysk, loaded with torpedoes, has been intercepted in the Balearic Sea as part of a maritime security operation by the Navy in Spain.

Over recent weeks, Spanish frigates and patrol vessels have monitored four Russian ships navigating strategically sensitive waters around Spain.

Intercepting the Novorossiysk

The maritime action ship (BAM) Tornado located the Russian submarine Novorossiysk south of the Balearic Islands. The submarine was en route from the eastern Mediterranean to northern Europe. The detection forms part of a broader effort by the Spanish Navy to monitor and track Russian naval activities in areas critical to national and European security.

Operations in key maritime zones

The Spanish Navy’s operations spanned multiple strategic regions, including the Alborán Sea, the Gulf of Cádiz, and the Atlantic coast. These zones are vital for maintaining Spain’s maritime security and ensuring safe passage for international trade and naval operations.

Frigate Victoria: Monitoring the Alborán Sea

The frigate Victoria was deployed in the Alborán Sea, tasked with tracking the Russian frigate Golovko. The Golovko was escorting the merchant vessel, Lady Maria. During the operation, Victoria also detected the Russian oil tanker Altay near the Bay of Oran, off the Algerian coast. The Altay serves as a refuelling vessel for Russian naval units in the region.

Frigate Blas de Lezo: Atlantic Surveillance

The frigate Blas de Lezo continued tracking the Novorossiysk as it moved from the Balearic Sea towards northern Europe. This operation built upon the earlier detection by the Tornado. Once the submarine left Spanish waters, responsibility for its monitoring was handed over to the French Navy.

Strengthening maritime security

Following the successful completion of their missions, the frigates Victoria and Blas de Lezo returned to their home ports in Rota and Ferrol, respectively. Meanwhile, the Tornado remains active in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alborán Sea, continuing maritime surveillance in areas under Spanish sovereignty.

A strategic naval presence

These operations underscore Spain’s commitment to maintaining security and vigilance in its maritime zones. By tracking foreign naval movements, such as those of the Novorossiysk, the Spanish Navy reinforces its role as a key player in ensuring the safety of European waters.

With tensions rising in global naval activity, Spain’s active presence in strategic regions serves as a crucial deterrent and strengthens alliances with NATO and European partners. The interception of the Novorossiysk highlights the importance of maritime surveillance in protecting national and regional interests.

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