A key feature of the exercise was the role of the Spanish Navy, which commanded a major task force responsible for security in the Atlantic. The exercise included numerous NATO forces and was designed to test alliance coordination in a complex maritime security scenario.
“FLEETEX 250 is a powerful demonstration of the Alliance’s enduring commitment to the North Atlantic,” said Vice Adm. Doug Perry, commander of U.S. 2nd Fleet and NATO’s Joint Forces Command – Norfolk. “When our allies lead major combat-credible task forces, it sends a clear message of unity and capability. Spain’s command of the Atlantic task force, coupled with the seamless integration of forces from across the Alliance, proves that our collective strength is our greatest asset in ensuring a safe, stable, and secure Atlantic.”
The exercise was divided into two primary task forces. One was led by the U.S. Navy’s Expeditionary Strike Group 2, while the other was led by a Spanish Expeditionary Strike Group centred on the Spanish Navy’s flagship, the LHD Juan Carlos I.
CTF-Atlantic is responsible for leading the Alliance’s high-end maritime operations across the Atlantic Ocean. It works with CTF-North, its U.S.-led counterpart, and FLEETEX 250 gave tactical units supporting both task forces an opportunity to operate together before activations later this year.
“To lead is an honor; to lead an Alliance force is a profound responsibility,” said Vice Adm. Juan Bautista Perez Puig, Spanish commander of Task Force-Atlantic. “Our sailors have proven their readiness and professionalism, operating side-by-side with our American and NATO counterparts. This exercise reaffirms that the security of the Atlantic is a shared duty, and Spain is proud to be a leader in upholding that commitment.”
Spain made several naval assets available to the Alliance as part of its deployment returning to Europe from the U.S. East Coast. These included SPMARFOR aboard the command ship Castilla, the Strategic Projection Vessel Juan Carlos I, the frigates Blas de Lezo and Reina Sofía, and the combat supply ship Patiño.
Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 was also integrated into the exercise. Commanded by Royal Navy Commodore Maryla Ingham aboard the German flagship FGS Sachsen, the group included ships from Germany, Norway, Turkey and the Netherlands.
“Our strength lies in our interoperability—our ability to communicate, manoeuvre , and fight as one,” said Commodore Ingham. “FLEETEX 250 challenged every aspect of our maritime skill, and the sailors of SNMG1 performed magnificently. We are more than allies; we are a single, integrated team.”
U.S. 2nd Fleet’s role in the exercise highlighted the link between the United States and NATO in the defense of North America and the Atlantic sea lanes. The fleet serves as the operational fleet for U.S. Northern Command.
After the exercise, many participating ships, including vessels from Standing NATO Maritime Group 1, were sailing to New York City for the International Naval Review 250. The event is part of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations and will bring together maritime partners from around the world.
Later in July, NATO will activate CTF-Atlantic to command allied vessels as they return across the Atlantic. In August, NATO will activate CTF-North under Expeditionary Strike Group 2 leadership to support Exercise NORTHERN VIKING.
