Spanish shipbuilder Navantia has launched the first F-110-class frigate, F-111 Bonifaz, marking a major step in the modernization of the Spanish Navy’s surface fleet.
Construction began in April 2022, and with more than 70% complete, the vessel was launched a month ahead of schedule. Delivery is expected in 2028.
Named after Ramón Bonifaz, the first Admiral of Castile, the ship is the lead vessel in a fleet of five Bonifaz-class frigates, which will replace the aging Santa María-class, in service since 1986.
Spain allocated €4.3 billion ($5.09 billion) in 2019 for the program. Currently, three frigates are under construction at Navantia’s Ferrol shipyard, with deliveries planned for 2028, 2029, and 2030, and the full fleet due by 2032.
The 145-meter-long, 18-meter-wide frigate is designed for multi-role missions including anti-air, anti-surface, anti-submarine warfare, maritime security, and joint operations with civil authorities.
It can carry up to 150 troops and a marine helicopter such as the SH-60 Seahawk, and is armed with torpedoes, surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, naval guns, guided munitions, and machine guns.
Powered by a gas turbine and four diesel engines with controllable-pitch propellers, the vessel can reach over 25 knots (46 km/h / 29 mph).
