Hubbry Logo
Military Emergencies UnitMilitary Emergencies UnitMain
Open search
Military Emergencies Unit
Community hub
Military Emergencies Unit
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Military Emergencies Unit
Military Emergencies Unit
Military Emergencies Unit
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia
Emergency Military Unit
Unidad Militar de Emergencias
Coat of arms of the unit
FoundedOctober 7, 2005; 20 years ago (2005-10-07)
Country Spain
RoleEmergency management
Size3,987 (2008)
Part of Spanish Armed Forces
HeadquartersTorrejón Air Base
MottoPerseverando para servir (Persevering to serve)
ColorsYellow  
March"Himno UME"
AnniversariesOctober 7
Websitewww.mde.es/ume
Commanders
Commander in Chief King Felipe VI
Unit Commander Lt General Francisco Javier Marcos Izquierdo
Insignia
Guidon
Aircraft flown
BomberCanadair CL-215
Utility helicopterEurocopter EC135
TransportEurocopter AS532 Cougar

The Emergency Military Unit (Spanish: Unidad Militar de Emergencias, UME; IPA: [uniˈðað miliˈtaɾ ðe emeɾˈxenθjas]) is a branch of the Spanish Armed Forces responsible for providing disaster relief throughout Spain mainly, and abroad if required. It is the newest branch of the Spanish Armed Forces.

History

[edit]

The decision to create the Military Emergencies Unit was agreed upon at a cabinet meeting of the Zapatero administration on October 7, 2005.[1] This was enacted in law by the Real Decreto 416/2006 (Royal Decree 416/2006) on April 11, 2006.[2]

Missions

[edit]
  1. Intervention during emergencies that have their origin in natural hazards; among these are floods, spill-overs, earthquakes, land slides, large snow storms and other adverse weather conditions.
  2. Intervention fighting forest fires.
  3. Intervention during emergencies derived from technological hazards; among which are chemical, nuclear, radiological and biological hazards.
  4. Intervention during emergencies as a consequence of terrorist attacks or illicit or violent acts, including those acts against critical infrastructures, dangerous installations or with nuclear, biological, radiological or chemical agents.
  5. Intervention during situations of environmental contamination.
  6. Intervention during any other emergency deemed appropriate by the Prime Minister of Spain.

Chiefs

[edit]
Rank Name Start End
Lieutenant general Fulgencio Coll Bucher 21 January 2006[3] 19 July 2008
José Emilio Roldán Pascual 25 July 2008[4] 26 September 2012
Cesar Muro Benayas 28 September 2012[5] 15 May 2015
Miguel Alcañíz Comas 23 May 2015[6] 16 October 2019[7]
Luis Manuel Martínez Meijide 23 October 2019[8] 16 August 2023
Francisco Javier Marcos Izquierdo 16 August 2023[9]

Organisation

[edit]

The UME consists of Headquarters (Unidad de Cuartel General, UCG),

  • five emergency intervention battalions (Batallon de Intervención en Emergencias, BIEM),
  • a support regiment (Regimiento de Apoyo a Emergencias, RAEM),
  • a communications battalion (Batallón de Transmisiones, BTUME) and
  • an aviation group (Agrupación de Medios Aéreos, AGRUMEDA)
Name Headquarters Areas Served
BIEM I Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base Ávila, Segovia, Madrid, Cáceres, Guadalajara, Cuenca, Ciudad Real, Toledo
BIEM II Morón Air Base Badajoz, Huelva, Sevilla, Cádiz, Málaga, Córdoba, Jaén, Granada, Ceuta, Melilla, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, El Hierro, Lanzarote, La Palma, Tenerife
BIEM III Bétera Albacete, Murcia, Alicante, Valencia, Castellón, Balearic Islands
BIEM IV Zaragoza Air Base Biscay, Guipúzcoa, Álava, La Rioja, Soria, Navarre, Zaragoza, Huesca, Teruel, Lleida, Tarragona, Barcelona, Girona
BIEM V San Andrés del Rabanedo Pontevedra, La Corunna, Lugo, Orense, Asturias, Cantabria, León, Zamora, Salamanca, Valladolid, Palencia, Burgos
Name Headquarters
UCG Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base
RAEM
BTUME
AGRUMEDA

Ranks

[edit]
Officers
NATO code OF-10 OF-9 OF-8 OF-7 OF-6 OF-5 OF-4 OF-3 OF-2 OF-1
Military Emergencies Unit
 General de División General de Brigada Coronel Teniente Coronel Comandante Capitán Teniente Alférez
General de división General de brigada Coronel Teniente coronel Comandante Capitán Teniente Alférez
Enlisted
NATO code OR-9 OR-8 OR-7 OR-6 OR-5 OR-4 OR-3 OR-2 OR-1
Spain Military Emergencies Unit
Suboficial mayor Subteniente Brigada Sargento primero Sargento Cabo mayor Cabo primero Cabo Soldado de primera Soldado
[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Military Emergencies Unit

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Military Emergencies Unit (UME; Unidad Militar de Emergencias) is a specialized branch of the , established on October 7, 2005, to deliver rapid and coordinated military support in response to natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and other emergencies affecting public safety in and abroad. As a joint force under the , it integrates personnel and resources from the Army, , and to assist authorities, emphasizing swift deployment—typically within four hours nationwide—and specialized capabilities in , , and . The UME's primary mission is to safeguard citizens' lives and well-being during catastrophes, calamities, or public necessities, operating as the first line of intervention in such scenarios while collaborating with national civil protection systems and international bodies. It comprises approximately 3,300 personnel, including about 7.5% women (as of 2025), organized into a in , five Intervention in Emergencies Battalions (BIEM) distributed across (in León, , , , and ), a Support and Intervention Regiment (RAIEM), a Communications Battalion (BTUME), and the Military School of Emergencies (EMES). This structure enables versatile operations, from to pandemic response, with the unit recognized by the in 2011 as its first (USAR) team. Since its inception, the UME has undertaken over 780 missions domestically (as of October 2025), including 560 forest fire interventions (such as 57 in 2025 alone), 77 flood rescues (notably the 2024 Valencia floods involving over 2,200 personnel), eight earthquake responses, the 2021 volcanic eruption (with 1,336 deployed), and extensive support under Operation Balmis (8,267 interventions). Internationally, it has conducted 18 operations (as of October 2025), aiding in earthquakes in (2010), (2015), and (2016), as well as wildfires in , (including a major 2024 deployment), while fostering agreements with entities like the Civil Protection Mechanism and the Central American Armed Forces Conference. These efforts underscore the UME's role in enhancing Spain's resilience and contributing to global frameworks.

Overview

Establishment and Purpose

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME), a branch of the , was established on , 2005, by a Council of Ministers decree under Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero's administration. This creation was prompted by the need to bolster national emergency response capabilities, particularly following the severe 2005 Guadalajara forest fires, which claimed 11 firefighters' lives and devastated over 12,000 hectares. The unit was designed to integrate military resources into the National Civil Protection System, addressing gaps in regional responses to large-scale crises. The primary purpose of the UME is to deliver immediate military support in emergencies, encompassing like floods and wildfires, technological accidents, and humanitarian crises, both within and internationally when required. As the first-responder entity of the Armed Forces, it operates under the direction of the through the Ministry of Defense, complementing civilian protection agencies by providing specialized capabilities such as rapid deployment, , and logistical aid to enhance overall . This role ensures a unified, efficient intervention that leverages and assets to mitigate risks and save lives. Headquartered at Torrejón Air Base in , the UME embodies its motto, "Perseverando para servir" (Persevering to serve), reflecting its commitment to sustained service in high-stakes environments. As of October 2025, the unit comprises approximately 3,500 personnel, enabling scalable responses to diverse threats while maintaining operational readiness across its specialized battalions. The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) was established as a joint branch of the through Royal Decree 416/2006, of April 11, which defined its organization and deployment within the broader structure of the , , and . This decree positioned the UME under the direct mandate of the Ministry of Defense, emphasizing its role in enhancing national resilience to emergencies while integrating with existing military frameworks. The unit's foundational legal framework builds on Organic Law 5/2005, of November 17, on National Defense, which provides the overarching authority for military involvement in civil protection activities. Activation of the UME follows specific protocols outlined in Royal Decree 1097/2011, of July 22, which approves the intervention protocol for the unit in emergency scenarios. These protocols are triggered through the National Plan for Civil Protection and Emergencies, managed by the Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies under the Ministry of the Interior, ensuring coordinated response efforts between military and civilian entities. For national deployments, authority rests with orders from the President of the Government, typically in response to declarations of states of alarm or emergency, as per the constitutional provisions on government powers in crisis situations. Internationally, deployments occur via mandates or bilateral agreements, with the UME classified as a heavy (USAR) team under the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) since 2011, enabling rapid integration into global response operations. The UME's mandate is strictly limited to a non-combat support role, focusing on humanitarian assistance and relief without supplanting civilian or assuming command over civil operations. This is reinforced by Royal Decree 407/1992, of , on basic civil protection standards, and Law 17/2015, of July 9, on the National Civil Protection and Emergency System, which mandate collaboration where military assets augment rather than replace local and regional authorities. Such limitations ensure the UME operates in a capacity, prioritizing the preservation of life, property, and in alignment with Spain's civil protection doctrine.

History

Formation and Early Development

The creation of the Military Emergencies Unit (UME) was spurred by the need to bolster Spain's emergency response capabilities following major crises, including the 11 March 2004 Madrid train bombings that killed 193 people and the severe forest fires in Galicia during the summer of 2005, which devastated thousands of hectares. These events highlighted deficiencies in coordinated rapid intervention, prompting the Council of Ministers under Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero to approve the unit's establishment on 7 October 2005 as a permanent joint formation within the Spanish Armed Forces. The decision aimed to centralize military resources for civil protection, with initial funding allocated for infrastructure and personnel buildup. Initial organization focused on integrating personnel from all branches of the Armed Forces—, , and —to form a versatile force capable of nationwide deployment. Headquarters were set up at near , with the establishment of core elements including the Support and Emergency Intervention Regiment (RAIEM), a Communications (BTUME), the Emergencies (EMES), and the first Intervention in Emergencies Battalions (BIEM) strategically located across , such as in León, , , and . Fulgencio Coll Bucher was appointed as the first on 20 January 2006, overseeing the unit's formative phase until 19 July 2008. Recruitment emphasized volunteers with diverse expertise, building specialized teams for , , and from the ground up. Early challenges centered on developing operational capabilities without prior dedicated infrastructure, including training protocols and equipment acquisition amid tight timelines. The unit's debut came in July 2007 during forest fires in Tejeda, , marking its first activation under the protocol outlined in Real Decreto 399/2007, where it deployed to support local firefighters in containing the blaze. This intervention tested initial and inter-agency coordination, revealing areas for refinement in rapid mobilization. By , the UME had grown from zero to over 3,000 personnel, approaching its target strength of 4,310, while early planning incorporated international standards, such as INSARAG certification for , positioning it for potential overseas roles.

Key Milestones and Expansions

Between 2008 and 2015, the Unidad Militar de Emergencias (UME) underwent significant structural expansion to enhance its national coverage and operational capacity. Initially established with one in 2006, the unit grew by adding battalions progressively, reaching five Emergency Intervention Battalions (BIEMs) by the mid-s to distribute resources across Spain's regions. This development allowed for more rapid response times in diverse terrains. A pivotal milestone was the unit's first major international deployment in , when 37 UME personnel were sent to following a 7.0-magnitude , supporting search-and-rescue efforts under Operation . From 2016 to 2023, the UME adapted to emerging challenges, including support for crises and leadership transitions. During the , the unit participated in Operations Balmis and Baluarte, conducting widespread disinfection operations, including the approved use of agricultural drones like the AGRAS MG-1 to sanitize large outdoor areas efficiently. In August 2023, Francisco Javier Marcos Izquierdo assumed command, bringing prior experience from roles such as director of Infrastructure and chief of the 's Airmobile Forces, to oversee ongoing enhancements in readiness. In 2024 and into 2025, the UME demonstrated its expanded scale during the response to the DANA floods in , where it formed part of the largest military deployment on Spanish soil, with over 7,800 Armed Forces personnel active in the region by November 2024, including UME specialists in search-and-rescue using certified canine units. Personnel numbers had grown to approximately 3,300 by 2022, reflecting steady institutional buildup to handle complex emergencies. The unit continued integrating advanced technologies, building on prior drone applications for disinfection and to improve in disaster zones. In 2025, the UME marked its 20th anniversary and intervened in 57 forest fires, deploying thousands of personnel to support firefighting efforts nationwide. Institutionally, the UME achieved certification as a Medium (USAR) team in 2023, becoming the first military unit worldwide to attain this INSARAG accreditation, enabling standardized international coordination. Additionally, the UME has served as a model for Latin American nations seeking to develop similar structures, fostering bilateral cooperation through shared expertise in response frameworks.

Missions and Operations

Core Responsibilities

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) of the is tasked with providing rapid, specialized support in situations to preserve citizen and welfare, acting as the primary military response force in coordination with civil authorities. Its core responsibilities encompass intervention in a wide array of crises, emphasizing non-combat roles such as , evacuation, and logistical support, all under the framework of the National Emergency Plan and in collaboration with regional and local governments. In natural disasters, the UME focuses on mitigating impacts from events like floods, earthquakes, and , conducting operations including victim location and extraction, mass evacuations, and the distribution of essential supplies to affected populations. For instance, during flood responses, personnel deploy to secure infrastructure, pump water from inundated areas, and establish temporary shelters, while in wildfire scenarios, they integrate with teams to contain blazes and protect communities. These efforts prioritize swift action to reduce and property, drawing on the unit's multi-branch composition from the , , and Air Force for comprehensive coverage. For technological and environmental emergencies, the UME handles incidents involving chemical, nuclear, radiological, or biological (NRBC) hazards, as well as environmental contamination, through specialized procedures, hazard assessment, and cleanup initiatives. Teams equipped for NRBC response isolate contaminated zones, neutralize threats, and support medical , ensuring minimal secondary risks to responders and civilians. This includes coordination with agencies like the Nuclear Safety Council for nuclear events or environmental ministries for pollution spills. Human-induced crises fall within the UME's purview, encompassing responses to terrorist attacks, major accidents, and humanitarian needs, where the unit provides security perimeter establishment, victim assistance, and aid delivery in urban or collapsed structures. In such scenarios, the UME collaborates closely with and services to facilitate from or wreckage and deliver psychological support, always adhering to its without supplanting civilian leads. On an international level, the UME extends its capabilities through frameworks like the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, , and operations, offering deployable teams for cross-border assistance in disasters. Since its inception in 2005, the unit has been activated nearly 800 times domestically, with the majority—over 550—involving fires and 77 related to floods, underscoring its emphasis on climate-related emergencies. Operational principles include rapid deployment, with initial response teams mobilizing within one hour and full units within four hours of activation, ensuring seamless integration across military branches for efficient, 24/7 readiness.

Notable National and International Deployments

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) has conducted over 780 interventions since its inception, primarily addressing forest fires, floods, and other natural disasters within , while also providing support in international crises through specialized teams. Domestically, the UME's first major deployment occurred in July 2007 during severe forest fires in , marking its inaugural activation under the national emergency protocol, where units collaborated in extinguishing operations across multiple fronts. In 2012, the unit responded to devastating floods in , deploying approximately 350 personnel to and 100 to nearby for evacuation, rescue, and infrastructure assessment in areas inundated by up to 245 liters per square meter of rainfall, representing its initial large-scale flood operation. The 2024 DANA floods in prompted one of the unit's most extensive national responses, with over 1,100 UME troops and around 400 vehicles mobilized initially for search-and-rescue, debris clearance, and , ultimately contributing to the rescue of more than 570 individuals and supporting recovery in over 77 municipalities. Internationally, the UME has deployed (USAR) teams to seismic events, beginning with the , where 37 specialists operated in , recovering over 30 bodies and aiding in initial stabilization efforts. In April 2015, following Nepal's , 47 UME members assisted in and surrounding areas, conducting rescues, stabilizing 14 structures, and safeguarding cultural sites as part of a UN-certified . The unit repeated such support in Ecuador's 2016 , sending 45 personnel plus 12 explosive ordnance experts to western regions for search operations, infrastructure repair, and heritage protection. More recently, in response to wildfires, 56 UME troops were dispatched to Chile's in late 2023 (extending into early 2024 operations), collaborating on fire suppression alongside local forces amid over 150 simultaneous blazes. The UME has conducted 26 international operations as of 2025. During the from 2020 to 2022, the UME executed over 100 deployments as part of Operation Balmis, focusing on sanitization of public spaces, medical facility support, and logistics, with units disinfecting to curb virus spread and contributing to broader military efforts involving 90,000 personnel nationwide. These operations underscored the unit's versatility, saving lives through rapid interventions—such as the rescues in —and enhancing infrastructure resilience, while post-event analyses have refined coordination protocols for future multi-agency responses.

Organization

Command and Administrative Structure

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) operates under a dual command structure, with organic dependence on the Minister of Defense and operational dependence on the Chief of the Defense Staff (JEMAD). The unit commander, holding the rank of and titled General Jefe de la Unidad Militar de Emergencias (GEJUME), exercises overall command and reports directly to the Minister of Defense. This framework ensures alignment with national defense priorities while enabling rapid deployment in emergencies. The headquarters, known as Cuartel General (CG UME), is located at Torrejón de Ardoz near and serves as the central hub for high-level decision-making. It comprises the Estado Mayor (EM) for , , and functions; the Órgano de Apoyo al Mando (OAM) for command support; and specialized sections such as the Sección de Asuntos Económicos (SAE) for budget management and the Asesoría Jurídica (ASEJU) for legal oversight. The Regimiento de Apoyo e Intervención en Emergencias (RAIEM), also based at , provides essential logistical support, including engineering, transport, and supply services to sustain operations. UME integrates closely with Spain's national emergency systems, coordinating responses with local, regional (Autonomous Communities), and national authorities during crises to optimize resource allocation and avoid duplication of efforts. An international liaison function within the facilitates with foreign militaries and organizations, supporting training and deployments abroad. Administratively, UME follows Ministry of Defense policies for recruitment, drawing personnel from all branches of the through standard military enlistment and commissioning processes. Budgetary matters are handled via the SAE and the Intervención Delegada, which reports to the General Audit Office of the Defense for financial accountability. The unit maintains a total authorized strength of approximately 3,500 personnel (efectivos), including about 3,200 active military members comprising officers, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), enlisted troops, and specialists from the , , and , as of 2025.

Operational Units and Personnel

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) is structured around five Emergency Intervention Battalions (BIEM I through BIEM V), which form the core of its field-deployable operational components for rapid response to disasters across Spain. BIEM I is based at Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base in Madrid, BIEM II at Morón Air Base in Seville with detachments in the Canary Islands (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife), BIEM III at Jaime I Army Base in Bétera near Valencia, BIEM IV at Zaragoza Air Base, and BIEM V at Conde de Gazola Military Base in San Andrés de Rabanedo near León. Each battalion is designed for self-sufficiency in emergency interventions, comprising command and staff elements, a staff and services company, two natural emergency intervention companies, and an engineering company, enabling versatile responses to floods, fires, earthquakes, and other crises. The BIEMs collectively account for the majority of deployable personnel. Complementing the BIEMs are specialized support units, including the Transmissions (BTUME), located at Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base, which ensures secure communications and command-and-control during operations with a personnel strength of 156 members organized into command , a staff and services company, a fixed command post company, and a deployable command post company. The Aerial Means Grouping (AGRUMEDA), also headquartered at Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base, provides air support capabilities such as , transport, , assistance, radiological , and medical evacuations, integrating with UME's broader aerial operations under a dedicated command and . The Military School of Emergencies (EMES), based at Torrejón de Ardoz, is responsible for the training and formation of UME personnel in response skills. UME personnel total approximately 3,500 efectivos including , with about 3,200 active military members distributed nationwide as of 2025, the BIEMs accounting for the majority in deployable roles. The force draws from a joint composition primarily from the (89%), (7%), (2%), and Common Corps (1%), incorporating specialists in (USAR), medical response, , and environmental management to address diverse threats. Additionally, volunteer reservists, including experts in fields like and , augment the active ranks during large-scale activations, enhancing scalability without compromising core readiness. Deployments operate on a modular basis, allowing UME to scale responses from small teams of about 50 personnel for localized incidents to full battalions for major national or international emergencies, ensuring rapid deployment within four hours anywhere in through strategic basing and inter-branch coordination.

Leadership and Ranks

Commanders and Chiefs

The General Jefe de la Unidad Militar de Emergencias (GEJUME) is designated by the and appointed by the King of on the proposal of the Minister of Defense via royal decree. Appointees are typically lieutenant generals from the or Air and Space Force with extensive command experience in operational units. The following table lists the GEJUMEs chronologically, including their terms and key contributions:
No.NameTermKey Contributions
1Lt. Gen. Fulgencio Coll BucherJanuary 21, 2006 – July 29, 2008Established the unit's initial organizational nucleus and foundational capabilities shortly after UME's creation.
2Lt. Gen. José Emilio Roldán PascualJuly 29, 2008 – October 4, 2012Oversaw the UME's first United Nations USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) certification in 2011, enabling international deployments.
3Lt. Gen. César Muro BenayasOctober 4, 2012 – May 28, 2015Directed responses to major domestic incidents, building on prior operational frameworks during a period of expanding unit readiness.
4Lt. Gen. Miguel Alcañiz ComasMay 28, 2015 – October 16, 2019Led over 243 interventions, emphasizing personnel management and academic integration in emergency response strategies.
5Lt. Gen. Luis Manuel Martínez MeijideOctober 23, 2019 – August 16, 2023Advanced international certifications, including the completion of the Domino 22 USAR exercise validation in 2022, enhancing global interoperability.
6Lt. Gen. Francisco Javier Marcos Izquierdo (current)August 16, 2023 – presentCoordinated the unit's response to the 2024 DANA floods in Valencia, deploying thousands of personnel amid one of Spain's worst natural disasters.

Ranks and Hierarchy

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) utilizes the standardized rank structure of the Spanish Armed Forces, which aligns with NATO standardization agreements for interoperability in joint operations. As a joint unit drawing personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force, the UME applies these ranks uniformly across services via NATO codes, with specific adaptations to reflect its emergency response mission, such as integrated training and command roles that prioritize multidisciplinary expertise. Spanish titles vary by branch; the following primarily uses Army and Air and Space Force designations (Navy equivalents noted where distinct). Officer ranks in the UME follow the officer scale from OF-10 to OF-1, equivalent to designations. These roles encompass strategic command at the highest levels down to tactical leadership in field interventions. The table below outlines the key officer ranks, their codes, and Spanish titles used within the UME:
CodeSpanish Title (Army/Air; Navy)Role in UME Context
OF-10Capitán General (Capitán General de la Armada)Honorary or supreme command (rarely assigned operationally)
OF-9General de Ejército/Aire (Almirante)High-level strategic oversight
OF-8Teniente General (Almirante General)Divisional command in large-scale deployments
OF-7General de División (Vicealmirante)Corps-level coordination, e.g., overall emergency response direction
OF-6General de (Contraalmirante) command, such as oversight
OF-5Coronel (Capitán de Navío) command in intervention units
OF-4Teniente Coronel (Capitán de Fragata) or specialized leadership
OF-3Comandante (Capitán de Corbeta) or operational section command
OF-2Capitán (Teniente de Navío) leadership in emergencies
OF-1Teniente / (Alférez de Navío / Alférez de Fragata) roles in tactical execution
These ranks are assigned based on the individual's originating service branch, with assignments ensuring balanced representation. Enlisted ranks span OR-9 to OR-1, incorporating designations with provisions for specialists, such as (USAR) technicians who undergo advanced certification for collapsed structure operations. These personnel often hold mid-level enlisted positions and contribute to technical response teams. The table below details the enlisted ranks:
NATO CodeSpanish TitleRole in UME Context
OR-9Suboficial MayorSenior advisory role to command in operations
OR-8SubtenienteSupervisory in specialized units
OR-7Squad or technical team supervision, e.g., USAR coordination
OR-6Sargento Section leadership in emergency interventions
OR-5Direct team command in field activities
OR-4Cabo Assistant leadership in tactical roles
OR-3CaboOperational execution, including specialist tasks
OR-2Soldado de PrimeraSupport in basic response duties
OR-1Soldado / MarineroEntry-level personnel in support and
Specialists like USAR technicians typically operate within OR-3 to ranks, certified for international standards in . In operational hierarchy, the chain of command flows from the General Jefe de la UME (typically an OF-7 or higher from the ) through the Segundo Jefe (an Air Force ) to battalion commanders (OF-5 level) and subordinate unit leaders, ensuring rapid decision-making during deployments. This structure integrates joint service elements for seamless coordination in emergencies. UME-specific adaptations include joint insignia that combine standard service branch symbols with the unit's escudo—featuring the Cruz de Borgoña on a field divided into eight sections of red, gold, and blue, timbred with the Royal Crown, and bearing the mottos “PERSEVERANDO” at the top and “PARA SERVIR” and “UNIDAD MILITAR DE EMERGENCIAS” at the bottom—to denote affiliation during operations. Uniforms and are regulated to support across branches. Promotions within the UME are merit-based, with service in responses serving as a key criterion for advancement, and the unit's joint nature emphasizing cross-branch experience to foster versatile leadership. The UME is officially recognized as a distinct force for evaluating promotions and merits.

Equipment and Training

Specialized Equipment and Vehicles

The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) maintains a diverse fleet of vehicles adapted for rapid deployment in disaster scenarios, including floods, s, and earthquakes. Key assets include all-terrain 4x4 vehicles such as the and Sport, which provide mobility over rough and uneven terrain, enabling access to isolated areas during . trucks, known as autobombas forestales, form a critical component, with deployments often including dozens of units equipped for direct suppression and delivery in responses. Amphibious units, such as salvage boats, support operations, as demonstrated in flood scenarios where they facilitate evacuation and debris clearance. During the 2024 DANA floods in , the UME deployed over 1,600 specialized vehicles in total, including these types, to aid in search, , and infrastructure recovery across affected regions. Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) equipment is central to the UME's capabilities, featuring tools for structural collapse scenarios such as systems, hydraulic cutters, drills, and for vertical and rescues, alongside devices for lifting heavy loads. Drones, including the ASTURCÓN ground drone, enhance in hazardous environments, capable of navigating difficult terrain to detect fires or locate victims without risking personnel. Seismic detectors, such as geophones and (UWB) sensors, are used to identify trapped individuals under rubble by capturing vibrations and acoustic signals. Hazmat suits and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) protective gear enable operations in contaminated zones, while comprehensive medical kits support on-site stabilization, extraction, and treatment by embedded doctors and nurses. Aviation assets bolster evacuation and logistical support, with the UME relying on helicopters from the Batallón de Helicópteros de Emergencias (BHELEME). The fleet includes four EC-135 (HU-26) units for and , alongside AS332 Super Puma and AS532 models configured for troop transport, , and . UME also operates for , including 14 CL-215T and 3 Bombardier CL-415, each capable of dropping thousands of liters of water over fire zones. These aircraft were pivotal in the 2024 DANA response, where seven helicopters contributed to over 110 rescues. Technological integrations ensure seamless coordination, with the Batallón de Transmisiones de la UME (BTUME) managing advanced communications systems. These include VHF military radios, TETRA networks, satellite links via BGAN terminals, and mobile access for real-time voice, video, and messaging across command posts. Environmental sensors for CBRN threats, integrated into USAR kits, monitor hazards like chemical leaks or , providing to guide safe interventions. Procurement and maintenance of UME equipment are handled through the , drawing from shared inventories of the , , and to ensure and rapid scalability. Recent updates in 2025 have enhanced the drone fleet via the Unidad de Drones de la UME (UDRUME), incorporating additional aerial, ground, and aquatic models for improved in complex disasters.

Training Programs and Preparedness

The basic training for recruits in the Military Emergencies Unit (UME) spans a six-week Curso Básico de Emergencias (CBE), part of the broader Formación Plan for Disaster Relief Military Units (FORUME), which equips personnel with foundational skills in (USAR), firefighting, and medical response. This program is conducted jointly with civil protection agencies to foster , emphasizing practical scenarios that simulate real-world emergencies such as structural collapses and hazardous material incidents. Recruits undergo rigorous physical and technical drills to ensure they can operate effectively in high-stress environments, building a before advancing to specialized roles. Advanced training involves annual simulations, including earthquake drills like the recurring "GAMMA" exercises, which test coordinated responses to seismic events across multiple regions. These drills incorporate multi-agency participation to refine protocols for rapid assessment and victim extraction. International collaborations enhance these efforts, such as joint training with the U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, exemplified by exercises focused on hazard management in zones, promoting shared best practices for global response standards. UME maintains high preparedness through a 4-hour deployment readiness standard, enabling the unit to reach any point on the Spanish mainland within that timeframe using integrated air, land, and sea assets. The unit's Medium USAR team holds International Certified (IEC) status from the ' INSARAG, with periodic certification renewals ensuring compliance with global standards for equipment, personnel, and operational procedures. Following the 2024 DANA floods in , UME conducted post-event reviews that led to the integration of flood-specific modules into its 2025 training curriculum, including courses on in inundated zones and environmental during heavy rainfall events. These adaptations emphasize enhanced water techniques and coordination with local authorities to address lessons from the disaster's scale, which claimed over 200 lives and highlighted vulnerabilities in flood-prone areas.

References

  1. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/CONOCENOS/Historial/Historial.html
  2. https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/es-ume.htm
  3. https://russpain.com/en/news-3/how-the-military-emergency-unit-works-in-spain-tasks-structure-and-salaries-264531/
  4. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Internacional/international_intervention.html
  5. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/Internacional/international_presence.html
  6. https://en.meteorologiaenred.com/the-history--missions--and-future-of-an-essential-unit.html
  7. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0095327X221130360
  8. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/Galerias/Descargas/PRENSA/01_12_15_Defensa_La_UME_espanolax_claves_del_exito.pdf
  9. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Galerias/dossier/Descargas/dossier_2011.pdf
  10. https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2006-7168
  11. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Galerias/dossier/Descargas/120920_Dossier_UME.pdf
  12. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/unidades/Cuartel_General/index.html
  13. https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/serviciosdeprensa/notasprensa/defensa/paginas/2025/que-es-la-ume-unidad-militar-de-emergencia.aspx
  14. https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2005-18933
  15. https://www.boe.es/buscar/doc.php?id=BOE-A-2011-12869
  16. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/usar/English_version_usar.html
  17. https://consorsegurosdigital.com/almacen/pdf/the-spanish-emergency-military-unit-unidad-militar-de-emergencias-the-goverments-special-emergency-tool.pdf
  18. https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-1992-10731
  19. https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2015-7734
  20. https://www.realinstitutoelcano.org/en/work-document/after-the-madrid-bombings-internal-security-reforms-and-the-prevention-of-global-terrorism-in-spain-wp/
  21. https://web.centredelas.org/actualitat/razones-de-ser-y-justificaciones-de-los-ejercitos-la-unidad-militar-de-emergencias/?lang=es
  22. https://www.asevaume.org/historia-de-la-ume
  23. https://www.revistanuclear.es/wp-content/uploads/hemeroteca/277/NE277-01.pdf
  24. https://documentacion.fundacionmapfre.org/documentacion/publico/en/media/group/1035695.do
  25. https://www.defensa.gob.es/gabinete/notasPrensa/2007/07/notaPrensa_11491.html
  26. https://fundacionalternativas.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/a319f2c511913d59d09bb5b609b1ec1b.pdf
  27. https://www.scmp.com/tech/gear/article/3077945/spains-military-uses-dji-agricultural-drones-spray-disinfectant-fight
  28. https://www.defensa.gob.es/gabinete/notasPrensa/2023/08/DGC-230811-nombramiento-ume.html
  29. https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/presidente/news/paginas/2024/20241104-dana-monitoring-committee-meeting.aspx
  30. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-86741-5_10
  31. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/usar/musar_en.html
  32. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/03043754231176614
  33. https://www.defensa.gob.es/fuerzasarmadas/ume/
  34. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/CONOCENOS/Historial/HISTORIAL_UME_2025.pdf
  35. https://www.rtve.es/noticias/20120928/fuertes-lluvias-obligan-a-evacuar-a-5000-personas-varios-municipios-malaga/565407.shtml
  36. https://www.heraldo.es/noticias/nacional/2024/10/30/el-gobierno-moviliza-a-mas-de-1-100-efectivos-de-la-ume-750-agentes-de-guardia-civil-y-unos-100-policias-por-la-dana-1774044.html
  37. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/Internacional/intervenciones_extranjero.html
  38. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Internacional/chile_en.html
  39. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/covid19/COVID19_site.html
  40. https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/serviciosdeprensa/notasprensa/defensa/paginas/2020/12042020_balmis.aspx
  41. https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2007-11932
  42. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/LA_UME_POR_DENTRO/organizacion/
  43. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/en/Galerias/Descargas/PRENSA/PerfilesIDS_UnidadMilitarEmergencias_parasevir.pdf
  44. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/unidades/BTUME/index.html
  45. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/unidades/organicas/agrumeda/
  46. https://www.defensa.gob.es/comun/slider/2019/07/190715-reservistas-voluntarios-ume.html
  47. https://www.servimedia.es/noticias/general-roldan-pascual-nuevo-jefe-unidad-militar-emergencias/1411331553
  48. https://www.asevaume.org/general-coll
  49. https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5457093/unidad-militar-emergencias-cumple-20-anos-luchando-primera-linea-contra-catastrofes
  50. https://www.asevaume.org/general-emilio-roldan
  51. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/Noticias/2015/05/Noticias/Despedida_TG_Muro.html
  52. https://www.asevaume.org/general-cesar-muro
  53. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/Noticias/2019/10/Noticias/despedida_general_alcaniz.html
  54. https://www.defensa.com/espana/general-miguel-alcaniz-comas-nombrado-jefe-unidad-militar
  55. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Noticias/2022/05/Noticias/domino22.html
  56. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Noticias/2023/08/Noticias/despedida_gejume.html
  57. https://www.elmundo.es/espana/2025/10/11/68e95847fdddff0a4c8b45d7.html
  58. https://www.boe.es/eli/es/o/2019/02/21/def160
  59. https://www.cud.upct.es/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/empleos-militares-en-las-fuerzas-armadas-espaolas-y-sus-equivalencias.pdf
  60. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/usar/index.html
  61. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/simbolos/escudo/index.html
  62. https://tank-afv.com/modern/Spain/URO-Vamtac.php
  63. https://www.highmotor.com/en/ume-recibe-60-unidades-ssangyong-musso-prestar-servicio-unidad.html
  64. https://www.rtve.es/noticias/20241030/militares-ume-desplegados-valencia-a-dana/16309255.shtml
  65. https://www.libertaddigital.com/defensa/2024-11-06/el-gobierno-eleva-hasta-los-8000-el-numero-de-militares-desplegados-en-el-area-de-valencia-7183365/
  66. https://www.elperiodico.com/es/sociedad/20250820/dron-terrestre-asturcon-ejercito-estreno-incendios-galicia-extremadura-castilla-leon-120795790
  67. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/LA_UME_POR_DENTRO/medios/aereos/index.html
  68. https://www.larazon.es/espana/defensa/ume-boinas-verdes-helicopteros-despliegue-militar-dana_2024103067227f53d8f8950001d5a0f4.html
  69. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/LA_UME_POR_DENTRO/medios/comunicaciones/index.html
  70. https://www.estrelladigital.es/articulo/seguridad-defensa/ume-capacidad-operativa-lucha-incendios-verano-nuevos-vehiculos-pesados/20250625071532432690.html
  71. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/Galerias/Descargas/FORUME_Plan_ING.pdf
  72. https://www.defensa.gob.es/ume/Galerias/Descargas/PRENSA/140501_policia_lunol.pdf
  73. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/1780440
  74. https://www.cenim.csic.es/ciencia-de-emergencia-cenim-csic-felix-lopez-de-practicas-ante-inundaciones-con-la-ume-y-la-segunda-vida-de-los-residuos-de-la-dana-en-valencia-conferencia-completa/
  75. https://ume.defensa.gob.es/en/en/eu/gl/Noticias/2025/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.