Mar 20 2025

Western Mediterranean Security Bolstered as Operation Sea Guardian Focused Patrols Concludes

MEDITERRANEAN SEA – NATO's Operation Sea Guardian (OSG) Task Group, led by Spanish Navy Commander Juan David Garcia Garcia aboard the flagship ESPS Canarias, has successfully completed a two-week deployment in the Western Mediterranean Sea.

Operation Sea Guardian plays a vital role in safeguarding the Mediterranean Sea by enhancing Maritime Security Awareness. Through continuous vigilance and surveillance, OSG strengthens the understanding of maritime activities, ensuring a safer environment for commercial trade and transit.

During the mission a Spanish submarine provided crucial support, working in close coordination with the Commander Task Group. Additionally, Maritime Patrol Aircraft from Spain and Portugal contributed to the operation’s success.

The important support provided by submarines and air assets to the flagship, ESPS Canarias, proved instrumental in achieving our objectives and underscored the strength of united maritime security efforts

Operation Sea Guardian flagship ESPS Canarias visiting merchant vessels, strengthening maritime awareness while ensuring a safer environment for maritime commercial trade and transit.

"Operation Sea Guardian FOCOPS 25-2 presented an invaluable opportunity to advance maritime situational awareness, critical for mission's success,” said Spanish Navy Commander Juan David Garcia Garcia. “The important support provided by submarines and air assets to the flagship, ESPS Canarias, proved instrumental in achieving our objectives and underscored the strength of united maritime security efforts."

Sub-surface and air support not only enhances OSG’s operational effectiveness but also improves interoperability between participating forces, fostering a more coordinated and responsive approach to maritime security challenges.

OSG Task Groups operate under the command and control of NATO’s Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM), which serves as the central hub for sharing maritime security information within the Alliance.

As a standing Maritime Security Operation, OSG is dedicated to deterring and countering terrorism while mitigating threats to maritime security in the Mediterranean. Furthermore, OSG carries out Focused Patrols in designated areas during specific periods throughout the year, reinforcing its commitment to regional stability and security.

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM

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