Príncipe de Asturias
Country of origin
Spain
Spain
ManufacturerEmpresa Nacional Bazán
Príncipe de Asturias (R-11) was a light aircraft carrier and former flagship of the Spanish Navy. She was built in Bazán's Shipyards and delivered to the Spanish Navy on 30 May 1988.
Spain has operated aircraft carriers since the 1920s, initially with the seaplane tender Dédalo and later the multi-role light carrier Dédalo, which was formerly the US Navy's World War II light carrier USS Cabot. Dédalo was replaced as the navy's fleet flagship by Príncipe de Asturias.
The ship was permanently assigned to the Alpha Group, comprising the carrier and six Santa Maria-class frigates (a Spanish version of the USN Oliver Hazard Perry class). Other vessels such as logistic ships, tankers and corvettes were frequently assigned to the Group when required. Príncipe de Asturias and the Alpha Group frequently participated in peace support operations in the Adriatic Sea.
The ship was retired due to defence cuts, being officially decommissioned on 6 February 2013.
Several countries had reportedly expressed interest in buying Príncipe de Asturias before she was dismantled. Indonesia reportedly showed interest, but then decided not to buy. Unconfirmed sources also indicate the Philippines, several Arab...
Spain has operated aircraft carriers since the 1920s, initially with the seaplane tender Dédalo and later the multi-role light carrier Dédalo, which was formerly the US Navy's World War II light carrier USS Cabot. Dédalo was replaced as the navy's fleet flagship by Príncipe de Asturias.
The ship was permanently assigned to the Alpha Group, comprising the carrier and six Santa Maria-class frigates (a Spanish version of the USN Oliver Hazard Perry class). Other vessels such as logistic ships, tankers and corvettes were frequently assigned to the Group when required. Príncipe de Asturias and the Alpha Group frequently participated in peace support operations in the Adriatic Sea.
The ship was retired due to defence cuts, being officially decommissioned on 6 February 2013.
Several countries had reportedly expressed interest in buying Príncipe de Asturias before she was dismantled. Indonesia reportedly showed interest, but then decided not to buy. Unconfirmed sources also indicate the Philippines, several Arab...
