Ecuador’s Astilleros Navales Ecuatorianos EP (ASTINAVE EP) shipyard has selected Fassmer’s MPV70 MKII design for the Armada del Ecuador new multipurpose combat vessel program.
As informed, the vessel will be built by ASTINAVE EP in Guayaquil with design, engineering, technical support and material packages from Fassmer.
The MPV70 MKII is part of a family of new Fassmer naval vessels focusing on the combination of support and patrol roles, providing fleet-level asset optimization as well as enhanced capabilities for disaster relief and humanitarian aid.
The MPV70 MKII design will feature ASTINAVE EP’s Orion combat management system and an integrated mast featuring a full digital radar co-developed by Virtualabs S.R.L. from Italy and ASTINAVE EP.
According to Fassmer, the MPV70 MKII capable surveillance and C4I configuration in combination with two stern launched interceptor boats and large flight deck (11t) provides effective patrol and deterrence capabilities. Among the logistics capabilities, the vessel can handle various containers and liquid cargo and is designed with RAS transfer systems to support other ships.
The MPV70 MKII is expected to enhance the Ecuadorian navy logistics abilities while increasing its presence in the EEZ, providing SAR capabilities and protecting fisheries and other natural resources.
Fassmer was selected through an international tender process and signed a contract with ASTINAVE in December 2019.