Navantia’s Puerto Real shipyard has held a keel-laying ceremony for the Spanish Navy’s new maritime action vessel for underwater intervention (BAM-IS).
As disclosed, the ceremony took place on November 27, 2025. The BAM-IS is designed for maximum versatility. Its expansive working deck, exceeding 400 square meters, can accommodate a wide range of modular systems, enabling the vessel to perform various missions, including diving operations, submarine salvage and rescue, and the protection of underwater cultural heritage.
The ship features an advanced propulsion and power system, combining direct current technology, energy storage, and cycloidal thrusters. This allows it to maintain precise dynamic positioning even in challenging sea conditions, while complying with the strictest environmental standards, according to Navantia.
Furthermore, the vessel will be compatible with the NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS), making it the first Spanish Navy ship to receive ‘MOSHIP’ certification as a mother ship for NATO submarine rescue and salvage operations.
Additionally, it will be equipped with remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for underwater exploration and intervention.
To remind, Spain signed a contract with Navantia for the construction of the vessel back in 2021. The construction of the BAM-IS is expected to generate a workload of 1.3 million hours over three and a half years. Navantia said that the delivery time is 42 months from the signing of the execution order.
The BAM-IS will replace the current navy rescue ship Neptuno, which is nearing the end of its operational life and is currently in charge of the most complex underwater intervention operations.