The Naval Cross Medal is a Portuguese military decoration established on October 11, 1985. It is awarded to military personnel and civilians, both national and foreign, who demonstrate exceptional technical-professional competence, extraordinary performance, and significant personal qualities. Recipients of this medal contribute substantially to the efficiency, prestige, and mission fulfillment of the Portuguese Navy.
One of the first three branch-specific medals created in 1985, the Naval Cross Medal preceded the Medal of the Cross of Saint George, introduced in 2000 by the General Staff of the Armed Forces, and the Medal of National Defense, introduced by the Ministry of Defense in 2002.
The Naval Cross Medal is awarded according to the recipient’s rank and the nature of their contributions. General officers and captains of the sea and war receive the 1st Class (MPCN). Frigate captains and lieutenant captains are eligible for the 2nd Class (MSCN). The 3rd Class (MTCN) is designated for other officers and sergeant majors, while the 4th Class (MQCN) is for other sergeants and enlisted personnel.
