The frigate ‘Reina Sofía’ (F-84) returns to Rota Naval Base after her deployment in SNMG-2

The frigate ‘Reina Sofía’ (F-84) has just arrived at her home port in Rota Naval Base after her integration into NATO’s Standing Maritime Group Two (SNMG-2) in the Mediterranean Sea.

The one and a half-month deployment started on October 15th to integrate into the NATO Task Group.

During the deployment, the Spanish frigate took part in several exercises and operations like ‘Noble Mariner’, ‘Active Endeavour’ and the Turkish manoeuvers ‘Mavi Balina’. On the other hand, and during 95 flight hours, the embarked SH-60 B helicopter from the 10th Aircraft Squadron carried out a series of intense missions including surface surveillance, force protection, medical evacuations and logistic support.

The frigate also conducted several VBSS (Visit, Board, Search and Seizure) missions and different personnel exchanges among Task Group warships like the Canadian Navy ‘Toronto’ or the Turkish ‘Kemalreis’. Our servicemen got to know the ins and outs of those foreign units while visiting Navy personnel from those ships learnt and got acquainted with the features of our frigate.

To crown it all, and during a scheduled port of call in Athens, the frigate –named after her– welcomed Her Majesty Queen Sofia of Spain aboard.