Origins date back to the medieval fleets of Castile and Aragon.8 After unification, played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery, sponsoring Columbus's voyage in 1492 and establishing the first transatlantic routes.8 Was responsible for the defense of the vast Spanish Empire and the protection of trade routes, notably the Carrera de Indias (silver convoys) between the Americas and Spain, and the Manila Galleon in the Pacific.8 Was one of the most powerful maritime forces from the late 15th to the mid-18th century.8 Faced conflicts with rival powers such as Holland, England (defeat of the Invincible Armada in 1588, Anglo-Spanish Wars), and France.8 The formation of the Armada del Mar del Sur (based in Callao, Peru) in the late 16th century was a direct response to the incursions of privateers like Francis Drake, intended to protect the transport of silver to Panama.46 Decline accelerated with the loss of most of the empire in the early 19th century and the defeat in the Spanish-American War (1898).8 Despite the decline, maintained shipbuilding capability, producing the first fully capable military submarine and developing the destroyer class.8 Main pre-1950 bases included Ferrol, San Fernando, and Cartagena.8