The Strait of Gibraltar represents one of the world's most concentrated maritime chokepoints, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea through a passage barely 14 kilometres wide at its narrowest point.

Geographic Constraints

The strait's shallow depth (approximately 300 metres) and strong currents create natural challenges for submarine operations. Surface vessels must navigate carefully charted shipping lanes, making the passage highly monitorable.

British Gibraltar

The Rock of Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory since 1713, provides the UK with a permanent military presence at this critical junction. The naval base and RAF station enable rapid response throughout the Western Mediterranean.

Commercial Significance

Over 100,000 vessels transit the strait annually, including:

• Major container shipping routes between Asia and Northern Europe
• Oil tankers from the Middle East to Atlantic refineries
• LNG carriers supplying European energy markets

Strategic Value

Control or influence over the Strait of Gibraltar provides leverage over Mediterranean access — a consideration that has driven great power competition in this region for centuries.