Tensions with Morocco, Spain Deploys the Legion

The Tactical Group of Ceuta and the Tercio “Gran Capitán” 1st of the Legion are the protagonists of a vast security operation conducted under the supervision of the Spanish Defense Staff (EMAD). As part of the Enhanced Presence Operation, launched in March 2025, the Army has intensified its deployment in the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, two strategic enclaves crucial for national security.

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

Tactical Group of Ceuta: Surveillance and Immediate Response

The Grupo Táctico de Ceuta (GTCeuta) is composed of units from the Comandancia General de Ceuta (COMGECEU), including the Grupo de Regulares nº 54, the Tercio “Duque de Alba” 2nd of the Legion, and the Regimiento de Caballería “Montesa” nº 3.

These units form a rotating multipurpose combat group capable of conducting patrol missions, border perimeter control, and immediate tactical response in case of threat. Daily activities include land reconnaissance, surveillance of critical infrastructures (such as ports, communication centers, strategic accesses, and logistics areas), and control of sensitive points in the area outside the city.

The EMAD (Spanish Defense Staff) has released images showing a large deployment of VAMTAC armored vehicles (Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico), produced in Spain. These off-road vehicles are essential for troop transport, mobile patrols, and rapid tactical operations.

El Grupo Táctico, #GTCeuta, y unidades del Tercio Gran Capitán de la Legión, están desplegados en Ceuta y Melilla en operación de Presencia, Vigilancia y Disuasión, #OpsPvD.
Protegemos nuestros espacios de soberanía nacional. #MOPS #MOT @EjercitoTierra pic.twitter.com/qPKzifuyI5

— Estado Mayor Defensa 🇪🇸 (@EMADmde) April 6, 2025

The Tercio “Gran Capitán” in Melilla: Specialization in Urban Combat

In Melilla, the Tercio “Gran Capitán” 1st of the Legion, part of the Comandancia General de Melilla (COMGEMEL), plays a crucial role in the defense of the city and the peñones and islets of Spanish sovereignty in the Mediterranean.

This elite unit is composed of a Plana Mayor de Mando, the I Bandera de Infantería Protegida “España”, an anti-tank company, and various logistical support units for combat.

The Tercio is trained in techniques of urban and underground combat, crowd control, and protection of critical infrastructures. Its skills also include hand-to-hand combat, installation reconnaissance, and stabilization operations, making it capable of effectively intervening in complex crisis scenarios.

Maritime Surveillance and Naval Support

To the land device is added the presence of the Spanish Navy, with the Maritime Action Ship “Audaz” (P-45) engaged in a surveillance mission in the waters of North Africa.

This naval unit provides support to detachments present in the Peñones de Vélez y Alhucemas, enhancing the joint deterrence capability. The BAM “Audaz” allows for early threat identification, ensuring a visible presence that strengthens the sense of security among the population and ensures an immediate reaction in case of an incident that could compromise sovereignty or the integrity of national territory.

A Demonstration of Strength and Determination

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

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

Photo copyright Estado Mayor de la Defensa (EMAD)