The ceremony was chaired by Admiral Aniceto Rosique, Director General for Armament and Material, and Navantia Chairman Ricardo Domínguez. Admiral Antonio Piñeiro, Chief of Staff of the Spanish Navy, Ferrol shipyard director Eduardo Dobarro and representatives from the Ministry of Defence and the shipyard also attended.
Navantia said the early keel laying reflects the progress of the programme and close cooperation with Spain’s Ministry of Defence. The milestone opens a new phase for F113, with block assembly now continuing on slipway 2 until launch.
The slipway had previously been occupied by F111 “Bonifaz”, the lead ship in the class. Bonifaz is now afloat at berth 10, where its main systems are being installed and commissioned ahead of sea trials.
The next steps for F111 include start-up of the Integrated Platform Management System and installation of the SPY-7 radar. Delivery of the first frigate is scheduled for 2028.
F112 “Roger de Lauria” is progressing on slipway 3 after completing its main structure with the assembly of the bow block. Navantia said the vessel is being prepared for launch after the summer, with preliminary work for that event already under way.
F114 “Luis de Córdova” is in the early stages of construction. Its build coincides with the commissioning of Navantia’s Digital Block Factory, which is expected to reach full operational capacity in the coming weeks.
Navantia described the facility as a major investment in the modernisation of the Ferrol shipyard and unique in Europe in military shipbuilding. The company said it changes the production model at the site as the F110 programme moves through parallel construction phases.
Four F110 frigates are now under construction at different stages, giving the programme a steady industrial rhythm. Navantia said the schedule remains aligned with its commitments to the Spanish Navy.
The F110 frigates are multipurpose escort ships with anti-submarine, anti-air and anti-surface capabilities. They are also designed for hybrid warfare and new threats, giving the Spanish Navy a broader operational tool for future missions.
For Navantia, the programme also carries industrial and export value beyond the ships themselves. The company said the F110 effort strengthens Spain’s strategic autonomy, supports a high-technology industrial base and opens further opportunities in international markets.
