The Spanish Navy frigate 'Numancia' has departed from the Naval Base of Rota to commence its fifth deployment in Operation Atalanta, the European Union's maritime security mission. The vessel is heading to the Horn of Africa, where it will spend five months combating piracy and protecting humanitarian aid convoys.

Onboard the 'Numancia' are over two hundred personnel, including a Marine Infantry Operational Team specialized in security, an Embarked Air Unit with an SH-60F helicopter, and a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS SCAN EAGLE). These assets will be used for surveillance and reconnaissance tasks. Starting June 10th, the frigate will serve as the flagship for the Spanish FHQ, 53rd rotation, under the command of Rear Admiral Francisco Javier Vázquez Sanz.

The ship began its transit through the Mediterranean towards Djibouti. It is expected that in early June, it will rendezvous with the frigate 'Canarias', which it will relieve in its duties within the operation. The farewell ceremony was attended by Rear Admiral Santiago Vila Barrón, Chief of Staff of the Fleet, who delivered words of encouragement to the crew and the families gathered.

The frigate 'Numancia', part of the 41st Escort Squadron and delivered to the Navy in November 1989, has an extensive operational history and has participated in various international missions, including Operation Sophia and previous deployments in Operation Atalanta itself.

Operation Atalanta, launched in late 2008, is one of the European Union's main maritime security operations. Spain, which inaugurated the mission, maintains a constant commitment to regional stability. The 'Numancia's' deployment will conclude in October, when the frigate 'Santa María' will take over to allow the unit's return to its base.