The Spanish Navy strengthens the patrol component. New OPV for Armada Española

The Spanish Government has approved the launch of a contract procedure for the construction of two new patrol vessels (OPV) of the BAM type, which will supplement six previously operated units of this type. New units are intended to strengthen its maritime surveillance and security capabilities.

New ships for Spanish naval forces

The decision of the Madrid authorities includes an order for Navantia shipyard to develop the project and to build two consecutive BAM-type patrol vessels (Spanish). Buque de Acción Marítima) who will be in service Armada Española. New units will continue the current series, which includes Meteoro, Rayo, Relámpago, Tornado, Audaz and Furor.

The order worth EUR 716 million is intended to maintain the operational readiness of Spanish maritime forces and to increase the effectiveness of patrolling, surveillance and protection of state interests in strategic waters.

New generation of Spanish BAM OPVs

As Navantia says, the new BAM type OPVs will be a structural development of earlier units, but with significant improvements. First of all, they are to receive a modernised combat system, an integrated ship platform management system (IPMS), improved communication and navigation systems, enhanced cyber security and the ability to cooperate with unmanned aircraft and vessels.

Ships also have have extensive working spaces, new medical facilities and increased capacity of living spaces, which is expected to have a positive impact on crew conditions.

Digital engineering and modern production processes

The entire design work is to be carried out in ELCANO digital environment created by Navantia based on Siemens technology. This is an engineering tool for integrated real-time planning, modeling and simulation of the construction process.

Ship construction will be carried out at Navantii plant in Puerto Real, where an automated production line for hull block welding has been launched. Modern assembly stations are intended to increase the rate of construction and quality of the final product by reducing structural deformation and precise machining.

Production from 2027

The signing of the agreement will allow engineering work to begin, while the construction of the first of the ships will begin in the first half of 2027. New Units will become an integral part of the Spanish maritime forces responsible for maritime security operations, crisis response, anti-trafficking and protection of marine resources.

The decision to expand the Armada Española patrol component fits into the wider trend of NATO state investment in multi-tasking vessels with increased operational autonomy and adaptability to missions of various types – from patrol to supporting special operations.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz