Spanish Military Staged Major Show of Force on Samil Beach in Presence of the King. A large-scale demonstration of the capabilities of Spain's army and navy took place in Vigo. King Felipe VI observed military operations on land, in the air, and at sea. The spotlight was on advanced technologies and joint operations.
On Friday, one of the most impressive demonstrations of the capabilities of the Spanish Armed Forces in recent years took place on Samil beach in Vigo. The event, timed to coincide with Armed Forces Day, drew hundreds of spectators and became the region's main attraction. King Felipe VI personally led the ceremony, arriving on the modern vessel “Audaz,” which had recently returned from a mission in the Gulf of Guinea.
Before the dynamic phase of the festivities began, the King conducted a fleet review in the waters of the Vigo estuary. Key ships took part in the parade: the LHD “Juan Carlos I,” LPD “Castilla,” frigates “Blas de Lezo,” “Almirante Juan de Borbón,” “Reina Sofía,” as well as the hydrographic vessel “Malaspina” and Guardia Civil boats. Seven aviation units flew over the city, highlighting the scale and modernity of the Spanish army.
The main part of the demonstration unfolded on the beach. First, parachutists from PAPEA made a spectacular landing with the national flag and a banner marking the centenary of great flights. Then, army units displayed coordinated operations: motorized infantry and engineers on VAMTAC vehicles practiced storming fortified positions, evacuating the wounded, and breaching barriers using explosives. Particular attention was drawn to the simulated kamikaze drone attack: it was neutralized by a shot, after which engineers and a detection dog disabled the explosive device.
Next, the Unidad Militar de Emergencias performed on the beach, demonstrating water rescue and emergency medical assistance during a simulated flood. The Guardia Civil conducted a joint operation to counter a terrorist threat at sea, and the navy concluded the program with a full-scale amphibious landing. In just two hours, spectators saw how modern technology and coordination between the army, navy, and civilian services enable response to a wide range of threats.
The celebrations in Vigo served as a prelude to the main military parade, which will be attended for the first time by Princess Leonor. It's important to note that attention to the safety and environment of the coast has only increased in recent years: for example, Andalusian authorities recently annulled the construction permit for the El Algarrobico hotel, which marked an important step in protecting coastal areas (more on the Andalusian authorities' decision). Such decisions and demonstrations of military capabilities highlight that security and sustainable development issues remain at the forefront for Spanish society and the state.
For reference: Spain's Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually at the end of May and is accompanied by a series of public events across the country. In recent years, the army has actively implemented new technologies, including unmanned systems and rapid evacuation tools. The participation of the king and members of the royal family in such events traditionally underscores their symbolic role in national security and the unity of the country.
