The Spanish shipbuilder Navantia has expedited the construction of an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) for the Royal Moroccan Navy under a contract worth approximately €150 million, according to well-informed sources.
The OPV will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies to ensure optimal operational efficiency. Measuring 90 meters in length and with a displacement of approximately 2,200 tons, the versatile vessel will have a top speed of 22 knots. It will feature a hybrid propulsion system to reduce fuel consumption, a landing platform for NH90 helicopters, an integrated radar detection system capable of monitoring a 200-kilometer radius, and an endurance of up to 20 days at sea, making it ideal for extended surveillance and patrol missions.
The OPV will also include modular systems for specific missions, such as combating illegal fishing, maritime trafficking, and conducting search and rescue operations.
The contract also includes a technology transfer clause, allowing Moroccan engineers to participate in the construction process.
The project is part of Morocco’s broader strategy to modernize its maritime capabilities, supported by growing military cooperation between Morocco and Spain. It is also part of a broader program to equip the Royal Moroccan Navy with at least four new vessels by 2030, according to the same sources.
The project underscores Morocco’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces by investing in advanced technologies to strengthen its presence in the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions.