This is the moment an American guided-missile destroyer joined the US fleet based in Rota, completing an expansion of its naval presence in southern Spain.

The USS John Basilone arrived from Mayport, Florida, with a crew of around 300 sailors on Thursday.

Defence Minister Margarita Robles attended the official welcoming ceremony at the Cadiz naval base.

The deployment increases the number of US destroyers stationed at Rota from four to six, strengthening NATO’s missile defence capabilities in southern Europe.

The expansion was agreed by Spain and the US during the NATO summit in Madrid in 2022.

Robles stressed the importance of cooperation amid international tensions.

‘We are living through very difficult times, hence the importance of collaborating to work for peace,’ she said.

Commissioned in late 2024, the John Basilone is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer equipped for air defence, anti-submarine and surface warfare missions.

Its commanding officer, Commander T. Max Murphy, said the crew was proud to join the US Sixth Fleet and looked forward to building ties with their Spanish hosts.

Captain Charles Chmielak, commander of US Naval Activities Spain and Naval Station Rota, described the arrival as an important milestone for the base.

He said the additional ships would strengthen the US Navy’s ability to respond and operate alongside allies in Europe and Africa.

The destroyer will be partnered with the Spanish frigate Numancia, with cooperation including joint exercises, helicopter training and regular contact between crews.

Its presence could also create opportunities for local businesses and workers involved in maintenance and logistical support.

The ship is named after US Marine John Basilone, who received the Medal of Honor for his actions at Guadalcanal in 1942 and a posthumous Navy Cross for his bravery at Iwo Jima in 1945.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.