The Mexican Navy (Armada de México) is the naval branch of the Mexican Armed Forces, formally established in 1822 following Mexico’s independence to protect the nation’s territorial waters and maritime interests. It operates independently from the Mexican Army and includes the Naval Infantry Force (Marine Corps) and Naval Aviation. Historically, the Navy’s origins trace back to Mexico’s colonial period and early independence struggles, where Mexican sailors played key roles in defending the coastlines and disrupting enemy trade routes[6][7]. Throughout the 19th century, the Mexican Navy faced challenges such as limited resources and naval capacity, especially during conflicts like the Mexican-American War (1846–1848). Despite being outmatched by the U.S. Navy in ships and firepower, the Mexican Navy employed defensive strategies that prolonged the conflict and helped maintain sovereignty over much of its territory[2]. The Navy also experienced setbacks, including the loss of its entire fleet by the war’s end. In the 20th century, the Navy continued to play important roles in national defense and regional security, including during events such as the 1914 U.S. occupation of Veracruz, when tensions along Mexico’s Gulf coast escalated[4]. Today, the Mexican Navy is a modern force focused on safeguarding maritime borders, combating piracy, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and supporting humanitarian missions. It has undergone modernization efforts since the early 2000s, acquiring new equipment such as Blackhawk helicopters to enhance operational capability[7]. The Mexican Navy remains a vital component of Mexico’s national security, maintaining a legacy of maritime defense and service that dates back over two centuries. It combines tradition with ongoing modernization to address contemporary security challenges in Mexico’s coastal and maritime zones.