Colombia’s state-owned shipbuilder COTECMAR has delivered a new Ocean Patrol Vessel to the Colombian Navy under a shipbuilding program initiated in 2016. Named ARC 24 de Julio, the vessel represents the largest and most complex warship ever designed and constructed entirely within Colombia.
Construction of the ship began in March 2023 and was completed after nearly two years, consuming more than 1,070 tons of steel. The vessel was launched in July 2025, followed by six months of sea trials and final outfitting before handover.
The program generated significant economic impact, supporting over 1,100 direct jobs and more than 2,200 additional roles across a supplier network comprising 343 companies. Measuring 93 meters in length with a 14-meter beam, ARC 24 de Julio features a flight deck capable of operating medium-sized maritime helicopters.
Designed for long-duration patrol, surveillance, interdiction, and search-and-rescue operations, the ship will primarily operate in Colombia’s Caribbean and Pacific waters. While propulsion and performance specifications have not been disclosed, the vessel will play a key role in Bogotá’s PF2030 naval modernization plan, which also includes the domestic construction of Sigma-class frigates in partnership with Damen, with the lead ship expected by 2030.
