The steel-cutting ceremony for the Spanish Navy’s first F-110 frigate is scheduled for 23 March, according to the information provided by the country’s Ministry of Defence.
The Spanish government approved €4.3 billion of funds for the construction of five new F-110 frigates for the Spanish Navy in April 2019.
F-110 frigates will measure 145 meters in length and displace 6,100 tons. They will be equipped with a 5-inch main gun, Harpoon missiles, torpedo launchers, two 30mm guns and a 16-cell vertical launch system (VLS).
The vessels will see the introduction of an evolved combat management system and new solid-state S-band radar with the aim of advancing partnerships between US and Spanish industry. Lockheed Martin, the US company responsible for the development and fielding of the Aegis combat management system, is already working with Spain’s Indra on the integration of new a solid-state S-band radar system which was developed for the F-110 frigates.
Furthermore, Damen Marine Components (DMC) has been contracted for a series of rudders and steering gear systems that will be installed on board five Spanish Navy vessels.
The new generation of frigates will be built by Spanish shipbuilder Navantia with the first ship set for a 2026 delivery. The other four vessels are slated for delivery by 2031.