WINDHOEK - Spanish Navy Ship ‘Rayo’ docked at the port of Lüderitz yesterday and will be there until June 13. It is the first time the brand new ocean patrol vessel enters Lüderitz.
The ship has just completed its first operational deployment abroad and has been fighting piracy in the Indian Ocean, taking part in the ATALANTA Operation under the European Flag since March and May 2013, according to a statement issued by the Spanish Embassy in Namibia.
“This visit, aimed to enhance cooperation and ties with the Namibian Navy, is encompassed as part of her voyage back to Spain, in which the ship will make a tour all around Africa, in order to enhance common understanding with friendly countries and to strengthen maritime security cooperation with African navies,” reads the statement.
‘Rayo’ is the fourth ship of the Meteoro class Maritime Action Ships, built by the San Fernando factory of Navantia shipyard. Launched on May 18, 2010 the vessel was commissioned on May 14, 2011. The ship’s home base is the Las Palmas Arsenal in the Canary Islands.
With a displacement of 2 500 tonnes and 93.90 metres in length, she is a brand new offshore patrol vessel, designed to protect sea areas of interest for Spain, maintain naval presence overseas and carry out maritime security tasks where required. The ship has 75 crewmembers. The public is invited to visit the ship on June 12.
Via: http://www.newera.com.na/
