The Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) ‘Rayo’ starts a strategic deployment in the West African coast and Gulf of Guinea

The Offshore Patrol Vessel ‘Rayo’ (P-42) departed today 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.

The ‘Rayo’ will carry out maritime surveillance and security missions, international cooperation activities and will provide support to ongoing joint operations. 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 in the area.

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.

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 and to increase mutual confidence with Spain and the EU”.

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.