Freire Shipyard to build diver support vessel for Spanish Navy

Shipbuilder Freire Shipyard has signed its first contract with the Spanish Navy’s Logistics Support Command for the construction of a new diver support vessel.

The latest generation vessel, part of the process of modernization and replacement of auxiliary units of the Spanish Navy, is designed to strengthen underwater intervention capabilities. It will be destined for the Military Diving School (EMB).

The vessel will allow the Spanish Navy to reinforce its mandatory role as a reference in this field, both nationally and internationally.

The unit will feature eco-friendly technologies to optimize fuel consumption and reduce pollutant emissions. It will have a length of 31.7 meters and a beam of 9 meters, with a range of 500 nautical miles. Its design will accommodate up to 30 crew members, to optimize the use of space and resources on board.

Additionally, it will be equipped with advanced technology, such as a side-scan sonar, an autonomous vehicle (AV), and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) capable of exploring depths of up to 900 meters.

The delivery is scheduled for the second quarter of 2026.

“This project, which represents the first contract between our company and the Navy, reinforces our commitment to innovation and supports the strategic needs of this institution, consolidating our collaboration in key initiatives for maritime security and technology. It is an honor for Freire Shipyard to contribute to strengthening the country’s maritime capabilities,” highlighted the General Directors of Freire Shipyard, Marcos Freire and Guillermo Freire.

Freire Shipyard was founded in 1895. The construction of steel-hulled vessels began in the early 1960s, and since then, Freire has built over 280 steel vessels for more than 25 countries.

Currently, the shipyard is dedicated to the construction and repair of high-tech steel vessels of up to 155 meters in length, including oceanographic and research ships, fishing vessels, megayachts, offshore support vessels, and military patrol boats.