Dec 4 2021

Meet Captain Miguel Tato

I am Captain Miguel Tato from the Spanish Navy. I am married and we have a daughter that is studying at the university in Madrid. I come from a Navy family, and I have grown up in a navy environment all my life. That is the reason I always wanted to join the Armada. My second desire has always been becoming an aviator, and the navy provided the opportunity to converge both wishes in the same service. The navy and aviation have been always my passions. I have no clue what I would have done if I had not joined the Armada!

I have done so many things in my career that I am proud of: a cruise around the world on board the Juan Sebastián de Elcano, the Armada's tall ship; becoming a Naval Aviator with the US Navy and flying the SH-3D Sea King; a job at the Naval Academy in Marín (my "students" are about to be promoted to Commanders and Marine Lt. Colonels); being the Commanding officer of two ships; etc.

I love reading about all kinds of history: naval, military, ancient and recent history. I really enjoyed reading about ancient roman emperors, the explorations and adventures of the Spanish navigators and conquerors (we are now celebrating the 500th anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the world by Juan Sebastian de Elcano), naval warfare in the World War II, and the memories of US generals and admirals in recent conflicts. I like sailing, not only in warships, but I enjoy sailing in sail boats as well.

My wife and I really enjoy living in Portugal, a brother country that has great and brave navigators that greatly contributed to shape the world as it is right now. People are very warm and welcoming, I feel like I am at home.

Working at STRIKFORNATO is challenging for every naval officer, no matter what nationality. I am honoured to represent my country and my Navy in such a selected HQ surrounded by such brilliant and motivated men and women.