Article Posted on : - Oct 26, 2010

The warship at the Rota naval base. A Spanish Navy photo

ROTA, SPAIN (BNS): Spanish Navy’s largest multi-role warship ‘Juan Carlos I', which was handed over to it last month, has arrived at the Rota naval base.

The combat ship arrived at Rota on October 24 and docked at berth No 4 which will be its final base, the Navy said.

The amphibious assault ship, named in honour of Spanish King Juan Carlos I, has the ability to operate as a naval platform and carry out non-combat operations such as support during humanitarian disaster or evacuation of civilians in crisis areas.

In its combat role, the warship can carry and operate up to 30 aircraft, including medium and heavy helicopters.

The 231 meters long and 32 meters wide Juan Carlos I has a water displacement of 27,079 tonnes. It can cruise at a maxmimum speed of 21 knots (39 km/h). The ship can carry a cargo of 26,000 tons and a crew of 243 persons.

The vessel will serve as a transport, landing and ground support base for the naval forces.