The US Navy has put a number on the economic impact of its presence at the Rota naval base.

According to its latest report, the use of the base in Cadiz province generates around €278.7 million a year in direct economic activity in Spain.

The figure comes from a Pentagon study covering 2021, and officials say it still reflects current levels, as operations have remained broadly stable since the pandemic.

The report, produced under USEUCOM, ranks Rota as the top US naval base in Europe in terms of economic impact on the local economy.

It even surpasses the headquarters of the US Sixth Fleet in Naples, which accounts for around €266 million annually.

Other bases, such as those in Poland, Italy, Romania and Greece, trail well behind.

Spanish defence sources estimate that when indirect effects are included, such as local spending by workers and related businesses, the total annual impact linked to both US and Spanish activity at Rota rises to roughly €600 million.

Where the money goes

The biggest share comes from contracts for services and maintenance, which account for about €124.5 million each year. Military construction and special projects add a further €25 million.

There’s also significant day-to-day spending. US personnel and their families spend heavily on housing in and around Rota, including nearby towns like Chipiona and El Puerto de Santa Maria.

Rental spending alone is estimated at over $40 million annually and may now be closer to $50 million due to rising prices.

Tourism and local spending add another €24 million a year, according to the report, with additional smaller purchases made both on and off the base.

A constant flow of people and cash

Although the agreement allows for up to 4,250 US military personnel at Rota, the number typically hovers around 3,000, fluctuating depending on naval activity.

Alongside them are around 5,500 Spanish military staff and roughly 2,500 civilian workers.

Inside the base, spending also flows through the Navy Exchange system, which is a network of shops and services used by US personnel.

From groceries to travel services, it functions like a self-contained local economy.

Salaries, benefits and future growth

The Pentagon also spends tens of millions each year on salaries and benefits. Around €35-40 million goes directly to pay and social benefits for personnel stationed at Rota, with additional allowances covering cost of living, food and specialist roles.

Looking ahead, the economic footprint could grow further. Plans tied to future maintenance contracts for US Navy destroyers based in Rota suggest continued long-term investment – despite past speculation about a possible withdrawal.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.