Spain’s Navantia to Deliver Avante 1800 Frigate to Morocco in 2026, Boosting Maritime Ties

Spain’s Navantia will deliver an advanced Avante 1800 frigate to Morocco in 2026, marking a milestone in maritime cooperation.

Spanish shipbuilder Navantia is set to deliver a state-of-the-art Avante 1800 frigate to Morocco in 2026, according to the Spanish newspaper La Razón. This military deal represents a significant step in maritime cooperation between Rabat and Madrid, aligning with Morocco’s ongoing efforts to modernize its Royal Moroccan Navy and reinforcing bilateral ties following Spain’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara.

Specifications of the Avante 1800 Frigate

The Avante 1800, one of Navantia’s latest designs, is a multi-role vessel equipped with advanced technical specifications. Measuring 87 meters in length and weighing approximately 2,100 tons, the frigate can reach a top speed of 26 knots and has a range of 4,000 nautical miles without refueling. It features a dedicated platform for helicopters weighing up to 10 tons, a hangar for drones or light helicopters, and two 8-meter fast boats for rapid deployment.

Designed for versatility, the Avante 1800 can perform a wide range of missions, including monitoring Morocco’s exclusive economic zone, combating smuggling and illegal migration, addressing marine pollution, conducting search and rescue operations, and supporting combat diving units. While the exact armament for the Moroccan variant has not been officially disclosed, La Razón suggests it may include a 76mm main gun, 35mm secondary cannons, 12.7mm heavy machine guns, and anti-aircraft and anti-ship missile systems. The frigate is also expected to be equipped with advanced electronics, such as 3D radars, IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) systems, sonar, and electronic warfare capabilities.

Strengthening Morocco-Spain Maritime Cooperation

The agreement with Navantia goes beyond the construction and delivery of the frigate. It includes logistical and training services for Moroccan naval crews, to be conducted in Spain, reflecting a deepened level of industrial and defense collaboration between the two nations. This partnership has been bolstered by improved bilateral relations, particularly after Spain’s 2022 recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara, a move that marked a turning point in Rabat-Madrid ties, as noted by Reuters.

The delivery of the Avante 1800 aligns with Morocco’s strategic goal of enhancing its naval capabilities to protect its interests in both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. The Royal Moroccan Navy already operates the FREMM-class frigate Mohammed VI and three SIGMA-class corvettes, positioning Morocco as an emerging regional maritime power.

Context of Morocco’s Naval Modernization

Morocco’s acquisition of the Avante 1800 is part of a broader effort to modernize its naval fleet amid growing regional security challenges. The kingdom has been expanding its maritime forces, as evidenced by previous acquisitions like the FREMM-class frigate from France’s Naval Group in 2014 and the SIGMA-class corvettes from Dutch shipbuilder Damen, according to Naval Technology. The Avante 1800 will further strengthen Morocco’s ability to secure its coastline and address threats such as illegal trafficking and maritime pollution.

The deal also underscores Navantia’s growing role in supporting Morocco’s naval ambitions, with the Spanish company recently progressing on another Avante 1800 offshore patrol vessel, as reported by Army Recognition. This vessel, laid down in September 2024, is also slated for delivery by mid-2026.

Why This Matters

The delivery of the Avante 1800 frigate to Morocco marks a milestone in Morocco-Spain relations, highlighting the strategic importance of maritime cooperation in the region. As Morocco bolsters its naval presence, the deal strengthens its position as a key player in the Mediterranean and Atlantic, while also reflecting the deepening defense ties with Spain. Amid evolving regional dynamics, this development could have broader implications for security and stability in North Africa and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• Navantia will deliver an Avante 1800 frigate to Morocco in 2026, enhancing the Royal Moroccan Navy’s capabilities.
• The frigate features advanced specifications, including a 4,000-nautical-mile range and multi-role mission capabilities.
• The deal includes training for Moroccan crews in Spain, reflecting strengthened Rabat-Madrid defense ties.
• Morocco aims to solidify its status as a regional maritime power in the Mediterranean and Atlantic.

Stay informed: Follow updates on Morocco-Spain relations and naval developments in North Africa.

Sources: La Razón, Reuters, Naval Technology, Army Recognition.