Spain Launches Testing of the Avante 1800 Patrol Boat for Morocco
After three years of dedicated construction and the creation of over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, Spain has officially commenced testing on the Avante 1800 patrol boat, a project undertaken by the public shipbuilding company Navantia for the Royal Moroccan Navy. This marks a significant milestone, being the first vessel produced by a Spanish shipyard for Morocco in four decades, reflecting the strengthening ties and cooperation between the two nations. Notably, this development coincides with the start of the African Lion 2026 military operations, further emphasizing the strategic partnership.
Specifications and Capabilities of the Avante 1800
The patrol boat has successfully completed its initial sea trial in the waters of Cádiz Bay, having departed from the Navantia shipyard located in San Fernando, as reported by "Infodefensa." The primary purpose of these tests is to ensure the vessel's operational readiness prior to its scheduled delivery to the Royal Moroccan Navy in the summer of 2026. This extensive project has demanded over one million hours of labor and the expertise of approximately 1,100 workers throughout its three-year construction phase.
The Avante 1800 boasts impressive specifications, with a total length of 87 meters, a beam of 13 meters, and a draft of 4 meters. These dimensions allow the vessel to displace up to 2,020 tons and achieve speeds of up to 24 knots, equivalent to 44.448 kilometers per hour. To accomplish this, the patrol boat is equipped with four main engines, specifically the MAN 175D model, and five marine generator sets, Baudin 6 M26.3, which utilize a combination of gasoline and diesel fuel.
According to Navantia's official website, the Avante 1800 is designed for a variety of missions, including air, surface, and electronic warfare, as well as overseeing Exclusive Economic Zones. Its compact design reduces radar signature, enhances autonomy, and enables operation with smaller crews, making it adaptable to diverse defensive scenarios.
As a patrol vessel, the Avante 1800 features a helipad for helicopter landings and has the capacity to transport up to two RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats). It is also heavily armed, equipped with a primary cannon of either 57 or 76 mm and two secondary cannons of 25 or 30 mm. Additionally, to boost its operational efficiency, the vessel is fitted with missile launchers and an Oto Melara cannon of 76 mm, enhancing its combat capabilities.
The Royal Moroccan Navy's decision to procure this patrol boat stems from its defensive capabilities, allowing for long-term maritime deployments at a reduced cost. This acquisition is part of a broader initiative aimed at bolstering Morocco's military strengths, particularly addressing some of the vulnerabilities within its armed forces, as noted by "Infodefensa."
Furthermore, the purchase includes a comprehensive technical-logistical support package, encompassing technical documentation, spare parts, and maintenance tools. Navantia is also committed to providing technical training services to ensure that Moroccan naval personnel are well-equipped to perform necessary repairs and maintenance tasks.
The objective is for the Avante 1800 to become an active component of the Royal Moroccan Navy's fleet by the summer months, complementing their flagship frigate, Mohammed VI, which has been in service since 2013. This frigate, originally constructed in France by the DCNS shipyard, is part of a fleet that also includes four Dutch vessels produced by Damen, two Floreal-class corvettes, and a Spanish-built Descubierta-class corvette delivered in 1983 from Ferrol.
As reported by larazon.es.
