The Spanish government has approved the initiation of the contracting process for Navantia, pertaining to the design and construction of two new offshore patrol vessels (BAMs).
These vessels are set to join the six currently in service with the Spanish Navy.
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With a budget allocation of €716m ($846.3m), the project aims to bolster the surveillance, security, and operational capability of the navy’s maritime action force.
Compared to their predecessors, the new BAMs will feature significant advancements in terms of operational capabilities and crew living conditions, Navantia said.
The company is scheduled to start engineering work immediately after the contract signing, with production expected to commence in the first half (H1) of 2027.
According to Navantia, the upcoming units will be equipped with an upgraded combat system, a next-generation integrated platform management system, and improved communication and navigation systems.
The offshore patrol vessels will also feature enhanced cybersecurity, the ability to operate uncrewed vehicles, and expanded workspaces and medical facilities.
“These improvements will enable the navy to address current maritime security challenges more effectively, while also enhancing the quality of life for personnel on board,” the company stated.
The engineering phase for this second extension of the BAM programme will be carried out entirely within Navantia’s ELCANO digital environment, built on Siemens technologies.
This digital environment allows for an integrated workflow that includes design, modelling, simulation, and construction.
The construction of the two vessels will take place at Navantia’s facilities in Puerto Real, Spain. These facilities are said to have a high level of automation and advanced technology.
A portion of the manufacturing work will take place at the flat block workshop, which is equipped with an advanced automated line that is currently undergoing final commissioning.
This line is expected to soon operate at full capacity for building blocks for the UK’s Fleet Solid Support programme.
In late 2023, the Spanish Ministry of Defence and Navantia initiated construction on two new coastal hydrographic vessels for the Spanish Navy.
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