Spain’s Council of Ministers has given the green light to the mid-life upgrade program for the navy’s F100 frigates.
Under the plan, Spanish shipbuilder Navantia will execute the modernization effort—valued at 3.2 billion euros ($3.71 billion)—within 120 months of the contract award.
The five Álvaro de Bazán–class frigates, originally built by Navantia and delivered between 2002 and 2012, will receive enhancements that will keep them operational through 2045.
The program aims to address system obsolescence, harmonize upgraded technologies across the fleet, improve overall efficiency and operational performance, and ensure adherence to today’s environmental standards.
It is also projected to deliver an annual economic boost of 215 million euros ($250 million) to Spain’s GDP and sustain roughly 3,500 jobs across direct, indirect, and induced employment sectors.
These multipurpose escort vessels are designed for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, excelling in force protection and naval power projection.
Measuring 146.7 meters (481 feet) long with an 18.6-meter (61-foot) beam and a 4.75-meter (15.58-foot) draft, the ships displace 5,900 tons standard and up to 6,594 tons fully loaded.
Powered by two LM2500 gas turbines and two Caterpillar 3600 diesel engines, the frigates can reach 28 knots (52 km/32 mph) and travel 4,500 nautical miles (8,334 km/5,178 mi) at 18 knots. They operate with a crew of 201.
The F100s were the first European surface combatants to incorporate Lockheed Martin’s Aegis combat system, equipped with the AN/SPY-1D radar for multi-target detection and the MK 41 Vertical Launch System supporting diverse missile types.
Current weaponry includes two four-cell Boeing Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers, a MK 45 Mod 2 naval gun, and a Meroka 2B close-in weapon system.
As part of the upgrade, the Harpoon missiles will be replaced by Naval Strike Missiles.
