Standing NATO Maritime Group Number Two (SNMG-2)

The 'Standing NATO Maritime Group No. 2’ (SNMG-2) is a permanent NATO group which integrates naval and air units from different allied nations. The purpose of SNMG-2 is to provide the Alliance with a rapid reaction force in maritime scenarios. The Spanish Navy has been present in these type of task groups for more than 30 years.

F-100 frigate ‘Cristóbal Colón’ is now ready to take on the tasks entrusted by Spain and NATO. Her 197-strong crew will be enhanced with 20 people from the Embarked Air Unit and 11 marines who make up the operational security team.

Among other tasks, the ‘Cristóbal Colón’ will carry out maritime surveillance missions in areas of interest supporting Operation ‘Sea Guardian’, an operation that started back in 2001 that fights terrorism and illegal activities in the Mediterranean Sea. Other endeavors related to naval presence in Allied ports are also scheduled to strengthen the bonds between member states.