Ships of Spain

How to Play: Spanish Cruisers.

The Armada Española (Spanish Navy) was the most powerful maritime force in the world from the 16th century to the end of the 18th century. In the early 19th century, with the loss of most of its empire, Spain transitioned to a smaller fleet but maintained a shipbuilding industry which produced important technical innovations.

The Spanish Navy built and operated one of the first military submarines, made important contributions in the development of the destroyer, and again achieved a first global circumnavigation, this time by an ironclad vessel.

In 1898, the Spanish-American War broke out and the Spanish Navy saw crushing defeats at the hands of the United States. The war end with the collapse of the Spanish Empire. After the war, Spain rebuilt their fleet into a smaller, but modern force. Spain would remain neutral throughout World War I.

In the 1930's, the Spanish Navy was divided by the Spanish Civil War and numerous engagements between the Republicans and Nationalists were recorded with significant losses for both sides. Spain remained neutral in World War II, but the navy continued to conduct patrols. Spain acquired many vessels from the United States in the post-war years, including their first aircraft carrier and brought the Spanish Navy back into a position of being one of the most powerful and capable European navies.

Today the Spanish Navy remains a significant force capable of projecting power within its sphere of influence and abroad. Its shipbuilding industry is one of the best in the world, building many ships for itself and foreign navies. The main bases of the Spanish Navy are at Rota, Ferrol, San Fernando and Cartagena.