Navantia has launched the next F110 Bonifaz-class frigate for the Spanish Navy at its Astillero de Ferrol shipyard, marking the milestone four months ahead of schedule.
Named SPS Roger de Lauria (F112), the hull is the second of five planned multipurpose escort vessels designed for anti-submarine, surface, and anti-air warfare.
Following the ceremony, the warship will undergo final fitting-out at the pier ahead of its scheduled delivery in 2029.
Five Surface Combatants Expected
Madrid’s F110 program relies on domestic suppliers for approximately 65 percent of its components and leverages a digital twin, which serves as a virtual replica utilizing artificial intelligence and sensor data to optimize maintenance and operations.
The platforms also integrate Navantia’s proprietary SCOMBA combat system and an integrated mast designed to reduce radar signature.
Currently, the initiative’s lead ship SPS Bonifaz (F111) is now at its system integration phase ahead of sea trials in 2027.
Assembly of the third frigate SPS Menéndez de Avilés (F113) is also underway, while initial work on the fourth, the SPS Luis de Córdova (F114), has begun at Navantia’s Digital Block Factory.
Construction of the final vessel in the class, the SPS Barceló (F115), is expected to commence next year.
The 10-year effort supports roughly 9,000 direct and indirect roles across 500 Spanish companies.
“The frigate ‘Roger de Lauria’, like its predecessor ‘Bonifaz’, faithfully reflects Spain’s commitment to innovation and technological sovereignty,” Spanish Navy Chief of Staff Admr. Antonio Piñeiro stated.
“Each vessel in this series creates … promotes R&D&I and strengthens the Spanish naval industry’s international leadership.”
The Bonifaz Frigate
The Spanish Navy’s F110 Bonifaz warship design has a length of 145 meters (476 feet) and a beam of 18 meters (59 feet).
It has capacity for up to 150 personnel and a maritime helicopter similar in size to an SH-60 Seahawk or NH90 helicopter.
The vessel is equipped with a 30,000-horsepower GE LM2500 turbine, two 4,600-horsepower Ingeteam electric propulsion motors, four MTU 20V4000 diesel engines with a total output of about 16,000 horsepower, and controllable pitch propellers.
It sails at more than 25 knots (46 kilometers/29 miles per hour) and is fitted with a 127mm naval gun, 30mm and 12.7mm close-in weapons, 324mm lightweight torpedoes, as well as anti-ship air defense, and land-attack missiles