Spain shows off Juan Carlos warship in Istanbul

Spain yesterday showcased its Juan Carlos I warship, which Spanish firm Navantia is now trying to sell to the Turkish Naval Forces. The Juan Carlos I, an aircraft carrier/landing platform and the largest ship in Spanish history, sailed into Istanbul yesterday with 261 crew members. "Our ship can receive up to six helicopters or four aircraft at the same time," said the ship's lieutenant commander, Calvar Manolo. "Turkey is a member of NATO, and this is an aircraft carrier that can be integrated into any NATO mission at any time, whether in Afghanistan or Libya." The Juan Carlos I can carry up to 1,435 marines as well as 25-30 helicopters and aircraft, Manolo added. Spanish Undersecretary of State for Defense Constantino Mendez is now in Ankara for two days to visit Undersecretary for Defense Industries Murad Bayar and to discuss bidding for the ship, Spanish diplomatic sources said.