Mexican Navy launches logistic support ship ARM Isla María Madre (BAL-11)

The Mexican Navy has launched a new, Astimar-built, logistic support ship, the ARM Isla María Madre (BAL-11).

The 53-meter ship will be used to transport people and goods to and from the Islas Marías Federal Penal Colony located in the Marías Islands archipelago.

BAL-11 was launched May 27, 2016, at the Port of Guaymas, Sonora, by Claudia Pavlovich Arellano, governor of Sonora and ship sponsor.

The Mexican Navy said the ship’s mission would be transfer inmates, their families and prison staff, as well as having the ability to transport materials and supplies needed in the littoral Mexican Pacific.

Powered by four diesel engines, the ship is capable of transporting 145 passengers and 17 crew members at speeds ranging 22 knots.

The vessel is based on the Damen Fast Crew Supplier 5009 adapted to meet specific Mexican Navy requirements. The modifications include a deck crane and an extra accommodation module.