The instability in Libya is creating an ideal environment for criminal activities and hence the European Union has decided to increase its presence in the Mediterranean Sea to combat human traffickers, prevent illegal migratory flows and strengthen support and internal responsibility. Spain, as a responsible partner of the European Union and in light of the dramatic death of thousands of people at sea, has offered various forms of military resources.
In his intervention in the Lower House, the Minister for Defence, Pedro Morenés, requested "a favourable vote for this initiative and hence the authorisation of the Lower House for the armed forces to take part in the European Union initiative in the Southern Central Mediterranean EUNAVFOR MED, through:
- A contingent of 12 military personnel from the Spanish Air Force and Navy to be deployed at both the Operational Headquarters in Rome and at the Force Headquarters set up on the Italian aircraft carrier 'Cavour'.
- During this first phase, a patrol and maritime reconnaissance aircraft will be deployed at the advance operations base in Sigonella (Sicily), with 50 personnel and the corresponding support and maintenance resources.
- Depending on how the situation evolves and the possible progress in the successive phases of the operation, Spain's participation may include the contribution of navy, support and air resources up to a maximum of 250 personnel".
The mission will last for one year as from the time at which it reaches its full operational capacity and the expenses deriving therefrom will be included in the budgetary heading of Defence for Peacekeeping Operations.
The operation falls under the strategic concept of the global focus of the EU, which involves the comprehensive mobilisation of all the instruments and tools at its disposal to resolve conflicts.
Ministerio de Defensa