Spain takes over from Italy and assumes command of Operation Atalanta against piracy in Somalia

​Spain has assumed command of Operation Atalanta against piracy in Somalia, succeeding Italy. Rear Admiral Manuel Alvargonzalez Mendez replaced Italian Rear Admiral Francesco Saladino in a ceremony on the Italian vessel "Martinengo" in the Port of Djibouti. Alvargonzalez will lead the 47th rotation of forces with the frigate Numancia as flagship. Operation Atalanta patrols the Somali basin and neighboring regions to combat piracy and protect vulnerable ships. Spain also contributes to Operation Atalanta with the detachment 'Orion' in Djibouti, which has about 50 military personnel.​