Spanish submarine sinks retired patrol vessel in live-fire exercise (VIDEO)

Fatima Bahtic – Naval Today

The Spanish Navy’s S-81 submarine Isaac Peral has sunk the decommissioned offshore patrol vessel Infanta Elena with a single torpedo during the SINKEX-26 live-fire naval exercise in the Atlantic Ocean.

Conducted on November 5, 2026, the exercise tested the combat capabilities of Spain’s Submarine Force in a joint operational scenario involving multiple naval and air assets.

The torpedo firing demonstrated one of the key capabilities of the S-80-class submarine, which is designed to operate covertly and engage targets with precision. The Isaac Peral is the first submarine in the S-80 series and has been deployed as part of Spain’s naval defense capabilities.

The exercise also involved frigates Cristóbal Colón (F-105) and Navarra (F-85), multipurpose vessel Carnota (A-61), offshore patrol vessel Relámpago (P-43), and the Navy’s Mine Countermeasures Diving Unit.

Air assets participating in the maneuvers included three AV-8B Harrier aircraft, a helicopter from the 10th Squadron, a Scan Eagle unmanned aerial vehicle from the 11th Squadron, and a maritime patrol aircraft from the Spanish Air Force.

The activity at sea was directed by the Commander of the 41st Escort Squadron, Captain Rafael Mira Calvo, and his staff, embarked aboard the frigate Navarra.

According to the Spanish Navy, the exercise enabled participating units to coordinate naval and air operations using live ammunition under conditions designed to resemble a combat scenario. It also provided an opportunity to evaluate weapon systems and strengthen the operational integration of the participating forces.

Environmental protection measures were incorporated into the exercise planning. Before the sinking, Infanta Elena underwent decontamination, including the removal of fuels, oils and other potentially polluting components.

The exercise area was also assessed from hydrographic and environmental perspectives, while monitoring and inspection measures were implemented to protect cetaceans and other protected species and ensure the safety of civilian navigation.