The Princess of Asturias has overseen the launch of a new class of submarine, hailed by experts as crucial for Spain’s ongoing military operations.
Princess Leonor, 15, was joined by her sister, Infanta Sofia, 13, at the naval base at Cartagena for the ceremony which saw the heir to the throne launch the Isaac Peral, the first of four new vessels which will take their places in the Spanish fleet over the coming years.
The two young royals were with their parents, King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, for an engagement focused on the ongoing development of Spain’s naval forces.
Spain’s King and Queen arrive at Cartagena with their daughters (Casa de S.M. el Rey)
They began their visit by meeting some of those involved in the construction and design of the submarines. Around 10% of industrial jobs in the local area are linked to their production. The family then toured the facilities of Navantia, the state owned ship building company responsible for the submarines. They were also shown a video about the development of the Isaac Peral, named after a famous Spanish naval officer and engineer who was instrumental in the modern evolution of the submarine.
King Felipe accompanied his elder daughter to the dais for the official launch of the submarine and, after a blessing, Princess Leonor cracked a bottle of wine on to the vessel to begin its formal service. Her proud father hugged her after she had carried out this latest royal duty.
Princess Leonor launches the submarine ‘Isaac Peral’ (Casa de S.M. el Rey)
The submarine will now undergo a series of tests before entering operational service in 2023. It is described as one of the most advanced non nuclear craft in the world. Three more craft will follow in the following years as the Spanish Navy continues to expand its underwater capacity.
Princess Leonor has had an increasingly high profile in recent months and recently carried out her first solo engagement in Madrid. This autumn, she will move to Wales to complete her secondary education, enrolling at UWC Atlantic College where she will be joined by Princess Alexia of the Netherlands as she undertakes studies for the International Baccalaureate.
