Spanish navy ship “Rayo” visits Lüderitz
The ship has just completed its first operational deployment abroad and has been fighting piracy in the Indian Ocean, taking part in ATALANTA Operation under European Flag since March and May 2013.
This visit, aimed at enhancing cooperation and ties with the Namibian Navy, was scheduled as part of the ship’s voyage back to Spain during which it is making a tour around Africa to enhance common understanding with friendly countries and strengthen maritime security cooperation with African navies.
“Rayo” is the fourth ship of the “Meteoro” class Maritime Action Ships, built by the San Fernando manufacturer, the Navantia shipyard. Launched on 18 May 2010, the ship was commissioned on 14 May, a year later.
The ship’s home base is the Las Palmas Arsenal in the Canary Islands. With a displacement of 2500 tons and a length of 93.9 metres, she is a brand new Offshore Patrol Vessel, designed to protect sea areas of interest to Spain, maintain naval presence overseas and carry out maritime security tasks where required. “Rayo’s” state of the art design and outstanding capabilities are the pride of the crew of 75 men and women.