Navantia Starts Building Second F-110 Class Frigate for Spanish Navy

Navantia has initiated the construction process of the second F-110 class frigate for the Spanish Navy, affirming the accelerated progress of a program valued at €4.3 billion.

The cutting of the first sheet metal for the F-112 took place on Saturday, December 16, at the Navantia shipyard in Ferrol.

The event was attended by prominent figures including the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez; the fourth Vice President of the Government and Minister of Finance and Public Function, María Jesús Montero; the President of SEPI, Belén Gualda; and the President of Navantia, Ricardo Domínguez.

The F-110 program, initiated with the signing of the execution order in 2019, outlines the construction of five frigates. Notably, the production of the F-112 has commenced four months ahead of schedule, attributed to the advanced design maturity and progress in engineering work.

The first frigate of the series, the F-111, currently under construction since 2022, is also experiencing advancement compared to initial plans. Of the 33 planned blocks, 24 are in different stages of construction and assembly, with five blocks already in stands as of December 18.

In terms of procurement, 98% of the program's equipment has been acquired, with materials reaching 95% for the F-111 and 70% for the F-112.

The F-110 frigates are designed to be multipurpose escort ships, equipped with anti-aircraft, anti-surface, and anti-submarine capabilities. These capabilities enable them to perform force protection and naval projection functions, operating in conjunction with other units.

The design incorporates advanced technological features, including an integrated mast with various sensor and antenna solutions, a multi-mission space, and a new hybrid propulsion plant for increased efficiency and reduced noise. The frigates will be equipped with the Spanish combat system, SCOMBA, developed by Navantia Sistemas.

The F-110 frigate is set to be an intelligent ship, representing the first Spanish naval program designed to incorporate a Digital Twin. This virtual replica, constantly updated with information from the ship, is supported by a network of sensors distributed throughout the vessel, creating a cyber-physical system. Utilizing technologies such as cloud computing, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), the Digital Twin facilitates remote maintenance and operation even from thousands of kilometers away.

Complementing the Digital Twin is the Integrated Services System (SSI), developed by Navantia in collaboration with the Universities of Vigo and Coruña. This system integrates sensors into the ship's light points, reducing wiring. The F-110 will also feature 3D printers on board for the manufacturing of spare parts.

These frigates will be the first in the fleet to incorporate an integrated cybersecurity system, addressing growing cyber threats. This innovation enables a reduced crew complement for operations, enhancing habitability on board.