From 30 June to 1 July 2022, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer, stayed in Spain, following the NATO Summit, to meet with His Majesty King Felipe VI, Spanish Minister of Defence, Margarita Robles Fernández, and the Spanish Chief of Defence, Admiral López Calderón. The Chair also visited the NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Spain (NRDC-ESP), where he met with its Commander, Lieutenant General Fernando Garcia-Vaquero, and gave a lecture.
Starting his official visit, Admiral Rob Bauer met with the Spanish Chief of Defence, Admiral López Calderón, to discuss the decisions taken by Allied Heads of State and Governments at the Madrid Summit. “The outcomes announced at the Summit will contribute to reinforce NATO’s deterrence and defence posture. Now, the NATO Military Authorities will look into taking these forward efficiently, resourcefully and in a timely manner”, he commented.
During his audience with His Majesty King Felipe VI, Admiral Rob Bauer extended his congratulations to the King for the 8th anniversary of his Coronation and Spain’s recent 40th anniversary as a NATO member. “For 40 years now, Spain has been a committed member of our Alliance, making significant contributions to our shared security, supporting fellow Allies and partners as well as enhancing our operational readiness by hosting Allied troops”, highlighted the Chair.
Discussing Spain’s support to NATO with Spanish Minister of Defence, Margarita Robles Fernández, Admiral Bauer commended Spain for its enduring commitment. “Spanish troops, aircraft and capabilities provide regular support to NATO missions and operations. Spain also plays a crucial role in providing training to Allied and Partner troops, through exercises like FLOTEX-22, the largest annual exercise organized by the Spanish Navy”, added Admiral Bauer.
On the second day, the Chair visited the NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Spain (HQ NRDC-ESP), housed at the Santo Domingo Barracks. Meeting some of the four hundred Allied troops stationed there, Admiral Bauer commended Lieutenant General Fernando Garcia-Vaquero, their Commander on their dedication and professionalism. “The Spanish Rapid Deployable Corps embodies the best of our Alliance. It is not only a great example of Spain’s support to NATO’s deterrence and defence posture but also a glowing example of teamwork, solidarity and readiness – standing ready and able to operate throughout the entire spectrum of NATO missions”, underlined the Admiral.
He concluded his visit by delivering a lecture to military and civilian personnel at the Spanish High Readiness Land Military Staff HQ and addressed some of the NATO Summit outcomes. He spoke on NATO’s ability to unite and adapt as well as NATO’s 360º perspective on security.
During the country visit, Admiral Bauer was awarded the Grand Cross in the Order of Naval Merit by Admiral López Calderón.