13 March, 2016 by Juan Carlos Díaz Lorenzo

First Stop of the BAM “Relámpago” in La Gomera

The Maritime Action Ship “Relámpago” –commanded by Captain Francisco García Flores– made its first stop at the port of San Sebastián de La Gomera on March 5 and 7. On March 6 and 7, there were open days, providing the people of La Gomera with an opportunity to learn about the ship and its mission alongside the other three ships of its class.

These are high-performance ships with reduced acquisition and maintenance costs and a high level of versatility, not only in military operations but also in cooperation for rescue tasks, combating pollution, evacuation, and humanitarian aid. They are fully constructed in Spain according to maximum efficiency parameters, having demonstrated their full operability and versatility in current operations such as “Operation Atalanta.”

Since its incorporation, it has been operating under the Maritime Surveillance and Security Command, within the operational structure of the Armed Forces. During its navigation, it fulfills the maritime surveillance and security tasks carried out daily in waters of sovereignty and national interest, reports the Naval Command of the Canary Islands.

The BAM “Relámpago” (P-43) is the third of the first series of four Maritime Action Ships (BAM). It is configured as an ocean patrol vessel and has a high level of automation, allowing it to be operated by a small crew.