Operation SOPHIA: Change of Command at the Spanish Detachment “Grappa”
Yesterday 15 September took place the ceremony of the change of Command at the Spanish Detachment “Grappa”, held by the Spanish Colonel responsible for the Detachment “Grappa”.
In his speech, the Colonel empathize the importance of the mission, and the altruism of Spanish soldiers that serve at EUNAVFOR MED 
operation SOPHIA.
After four months of intense activity onboard the CN-235 VIGMA D-4 , the 3rd contingent has finished its mission, with a total amount of 147 missions, and 1100 flight hours and handed over her duties to the 4thcontingent.
Now it is time for the 4th contingent, who will fly with the same type of plane, and with the principal aim of contributing to tackle the human trafficking and smuggling business model.
In recognition of their contribution to the mission, the 3rd contingent has been awarded with the Operation Sophia Service Medal, established by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 89-suspected smugglers and traffickers have been prosecuted by the Italian authorities and 299 boats have been prevented from being re-used by smugglers. Nonetheless, more than 26.400 lives were saved at sea.