Colombia Launches First Indigenous Frigate Construction
On February 5, 2025, Colombia’s COTECMAR Shipyard marked a significant milestone with the first steel-cutting ceremony for the nation’s inaugural Strategic Surface Platform (PES) frigate. This groundbreaking project represents a leap forward in Colombian naval engineering, as it is the first frigate to be constructed entirely within the country. The initiative aims to bolster the national shipbuilding industry and enhance the capabilities of the Colombian Navy.
Significance of the PES Frigate Project
The PES frigate project, spearheaded by the Corporation for Science and Technology for the Development of the Naval, Maritime and Riverine Industry (COTECMAR), is a pivotal step in advancing Colombia’s naval capabilities. During the ceremony held at COTECMAR’s Mamonal facility, Vice Admiral Luis Fernando Márquez Velosa, President of COTECMAR, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “At COTECMAR, we will continue moving forward, building the future and demonstrating that Colombian naval engineering is of world-class standard.”
This project not only signifies a technological advancement but also aims to strengthen the local shipbuilding industry. The PES frigate will be constructed using a modular strategy, featuring a hull made up of 52 naval steel blocks. With a length of 107.5 meters, a beam of 14.02 meters, and a draft of 3.90 meters, it will become the largest security and defense vessel in Colombia. This achievement positions Colombia as the third Latin American nation capable of building such platforms, following Mexico and Brazil.
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Economic Impact and Job Creation
The construction of the PES frigate is expected to have a substantial economic impact, generating approximately 1,500 direct jobs and an additional 4,000 indirect and induced jobs throughout the construction period. This initiative is projected to continue until the vessel’s formal delivery to the Colombian Navy in 2030. By fostering a skilled workforce, the project aims to create sustainable employment opportunities within the region, further contributing to the growth of the national economy.
As Colombia embarks on this ambitious naval project, the PES frigate stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities and supporting local industry. The successful completion of this frigate will not only strengthen the Colombian Navy but also showcase the nation’s growing expertise in naval engineering.
