F110 Frigate: Technological Superiority

The F110 frigates are one of the Spanish Navy’s flagship modernization programs, set to replace the current F80 Santa María-class ships over the coming years.

The contract covers five vessels, with the program’s total cost estimated at €4.3 billion. Construction is scheduled to begin in February 2022 at Navantia’s shipyards in Ferrol.

With a length of 145 meters, a beam of 18 meters, and a displacement capacity of 6,100 tonnes, the F110 is one of the ships that best embodies this new concept of a multipurpose vessel, combining high offensive capability with exceptional survivability.

One of the most notable innovations aboard these ships is their hybrid propulsion system. Each vessel will feature four diesel generators and electric motors rated at 3.4 MW each (equivalent to the combined output of 17 Porsche 911 Turbos), coupled to their shaft lines alongside turbines that will provide operational flexibility and a reduced acoustic signature.

Thales España will be responsible for equipping the ships with state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities.

The key components of the company’s integrated suite include the BlueMaster sonars (UMS 4110), the CAPTAS 4 Compact, the TUUM-6 underwater communication system, and the BlueScan digital acoustic system — already operational in countries including the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Norway, and Australia.