Admiral Rob Bauer, the chair of the NATO Military Committee, travelled to Spain after the NATO Summit to meet with His Majesty King Felipe VI, Margarita Robles Fernández, the minister of defence of Spain, and Admiral López Calderón, the chief of the Spanish armed forces. Additionally, the Chair paid a visit to the NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Spain (NRDC-ESP), where he spoke with Lieutenant General Fernando Garcia-Vaquero, the Corps’ Commander, and delivered a speech.
Admiral Rob Bauer met with Admiral López Calderón, the Spanish Chief of Defense, to begin his official tour and review the choices made by the Allied Heads of State and Government at the Madrid Summit.
“The outcomes announced at the Summit will contribute to reinforce NATO’s deterrence and defence posture. Now, the NATO Military Authorities will look into taking these forward efficiently, resourcefully and in a timely manner”, he commented.
Admiral Rob Bauer congratulated His Majesty King Felipe VI on both Spain’s recent 40th anniversary as a NATO member and the King’s upcoming 8th anniversary of his coronation during their meeting.
“For 40 years now, Spain has been a committed member of our Alliance, making significant contributions to our shared security, supporting fellow Allies and partners as well as enhancing our operational readiness by hosting Allied troops”, highlighted the Chair.
Admiral Bauer praised Spain for its steadfast commitment to NATO when speaking with Margarita Robles Fernández, the country’s minister of defence.
“Spanish troops, aircraft and capabilities provide regular support to NATO missions and operations. Spain also plays a crucial role in providing training to Allied and Partner troops, through exercises like FLOTEX-22, the largest annual exercise organized by the Spanish Navy”, added Admiral Bauer.
The NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Spain (HQ NRDC-ESP), located at the Santo Domingo Barracks, was visited by the Chair on the second day. Admiral Bauer saw some of the 400 Allied soldiers stationed there and thanked their commander, Lieutenant General Fernando Garcia-Vaquero, for his commitment and professionalism.
“The Spanish Rapid Deployable Corps embodies the best of our Alliance. It is not only a great example of Spain’s support to NATO’s deterrence and defence posture but also a glowing example of teamwork, solidarity and readiness – standing ready and able to operate throughout the entire spectrum of NATO missions”, underlined the Admiral.
At the Spanish High Readiness Land Military Staff HQ, he gave a speech to both military and civilian staff members as he wrapped up his visit, discussing some of the outcomes of the NATO Summit. He discussed NATO’s capacity for cooperation, adaptability, and a comprehensive approach to security.
Admiral Lopez Calderón presented Admiral Bauer with the Grand Cross of the Order of Naval Merit while he was in the nation.