The Spanish frigate Victoria has escorted the American aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford during its passage through the Strait of Gibraltar, in a mission that also involved two United States Navy destroyers.
According to a statement issued by the Spanish Navy, the frigate, which belongs to the 41st Escort Squadron, joined the carrier strike group alongside the destroyers USS Winston S. Churchill and USS Bainbridge.
The operation was directed by the Operations Command, through the Maritime Operational Command, and provided “expert knowledge of the local environment” as well as direct coordination with Spanish civilian and military authorities to ensure a “safe and orderly” transit.
The Spanish Navy highlighted that the operation strengthens tactical coordination and the ability of its units to integrate with allied forces at a key point for international maritime traffic. Victoria’s participation also marks her return to escort missions after more than five months deployed in the waters of the Indian Ocean on anti-piracy operations.