Tensions with Morocco, Spain sends the Legion

The Ceuta Tactical Group and the Tercio 'Gran Capitán' 1º de la Legión are the protagonists of an extensive security operation conducted under the supervision of the Spanish Defence General Staff (EMAD). As part of theOperation Strengthened Presencelaunched in March 2025, the Land Army intensified its deployment in the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melillatwo strategic enclaves crucial to national security.

This operation, coordinated by the Terrestrial Operational Command (MOT) and planned by EMAD, has as its main objectives the strengthening of the territorial defencethe protection of national sovereignty and the maintenance of stability in the region. The message to both the Spanish population and their Moroccan neighbours is clear: Spain resolutely defends its territorial integritythrough a highly trained, visible and responsive military presence.

Ceuta Tactical Group: surveillance and immediate response

The Grupo Táctico de Ceuta (GTCeuta) consists of units of the Comandancia General de Ceuta (COMGECEU)including the Grupo de Regulares nº 54, the Tercio 'Duque de Alba' 2º de La Legión and the Regimiento de Caballería 'Montesa' nº 3.

These units form a multi-purpose combat group in rotation, capable of carrying out patrolling missions, border perimeter control and immediate tactical response in the event of a threat. Daily activities include ground reconnaissance, surveillance of critical infrastructures (such as ports, communication centres, strategic access and logistical areas) and control of sensitive points outside the city.

L'EMAD (Spanish Defence General Staff) released images showing a large deployment of VAMTAC armoured vehicles (Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico), manufactured in Spain. These all-terrain vehicles are essential for troop transport, mobile patrols and rapid tactical operations.

The Tercio 'Gran Capitán' in Melilla: specialising in urban combat

In Melilla, the Tercio 'Gran Capitán' 1º de La Legión, framed in the Comandancia General de Melilla (COMGEMEL)plays a crucial role in the defence of the city and the peñones and islets of Spanish sovereignty in the Mediterranean.

This elite unit consists of a Plana Mayor de Mando, from I Bandera de Infantería Protegida 'España'from a Counter-Tank Company and various logistical combat support units.

The Tercio is trained in techniques of urban and underground combat, control of masses, e critical infrastructure protection. Its skills also include hand-to-hand combat, installation recognition and stabilisation operations, making it capable of intervening effectively in complex crisis scenarios.

Maritime surveillance and naval support

In addition to the terrestrial device presence of the Armada Españolawith the Buque de Acción Marítima 'Audaz' (P-45) engaged in a surveillance mission in North African waters.

This naval unit provides support to detachments in the Peñones de Vélez y Alhucemasstrengthening the joint deterrence capability. The BAM 'Audaz' enables the early identification of threats, ensuring a visible presence which strengthens the sense of security in the population and ensures a immediate reaction in the event of an incident that might compromise the sovereignty or integrity of the national territory.

A demonstration of strength and determination

The deployment of armed forces to Ceuta and Melilla represents a clear demonstration of tactical capability, operational readiness and political will to defend one of Europe's most sensitive and strategic borders.

In a context of geopolitical tension and irregular migration flows, Spain confirms its determination to protect their citizens and territoriessending an unequivocal message: national sovereignty is non-negotiable.

Copyright photo Estado Mayor de la Defensa (EMAD)