Ceuta was represented symbolically at Spain’s National Day parade, though none of its military personnel were physically present on Madrid’s Paseo del Prado.
No Ceutan troops took part this year, with the Spanish Ministry of Defence maintaining its forces in the territory after the July crisis in which tens of thousands of migrants entered the region from Morocco.
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, who presided over the Madrid ceremony, are scheduled to travel to Ceuta on Tuesday.
The parade unfolded amid heightened political tension following Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s decision to call a snap general election for 29 November.
Sánchez arrived at the event with parliament dissolved, facing jeers from onlookers gathered in the streets.
Under clear skies, 82 aircraft performed an aerial display, highlighted by two F/A-18 jets.
On the ground, the Army’s 8×8 Dragón armoured vehicles took centre stage for the first time. Marine Corps vehicles equipped with the Aracne anti‑drone system also debuted, together with two Asturcón drones from the Military Emergencies Unit, underscoring the Spanish Defence Ministry’s current investment priorities.
A total of 3,850 men and 530 women participated in the parade.
The King and Queen subsequently hosted a reception at the Royal Palace to conclude the National Day festivities.
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