The Navio da República Portuguesa (NRP) Bartolomeu Dias began its mission as the flagship of the European Maritime Force (EUROMARFOR) on October 7th, departing from the Lisbon Naval Base. The departure ceremony was presided over by Vice-Admiral José Rafael Salvado de Figueiredo, Naval Commander and EUROMARFOR Commander.
Commanded by Captain of the Navy Elias Véstia Cagarrinho, the Portuguese frigate has a crew of over 170 military personnel, including a helicopter detachment, a diving team, and an boarding team.
Established in 1995 by Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy, EUROMARFOR focuses on the security and defense challenges of the European Union, with a particular emphasis on the Mediterranean and adjacent areas. Its operations cover crisis management, cooperative security, and maritime security, including surveillance and protection of critical infrastructure and sea lines of communication.
Currently, EUROMARFOR aims to consolidate its international positioning through collective training activities and potential participation in EU and NATO military operations. In this context, the NRP Bartolomeu Dias is participating in the exercise “Mare Aperto 26” in Italy, a significant naval activity in the Mediterranean designed to enhance the interoperability and combat readiness of involved units in complex operational scenarios.
The participation of allied navies is crucial for training in multidimensional environments. By assuming command of EUROMARFOR, Portugal reaffirms its international credibility and contributes to European stability and security.
