Margarita Robles: 'The future of the Navy is already here'

The Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles, during the event at the Navantia shipyards in Ferrol (A Coruña)

The minister, during the signing ceremony marking the acceptance of the launching of the F-111 frigate 'Bonifaz', highlighted the commitment to modernising capabilities, as well as the investment and job creation associated with this programme.

The F-111 frigate is equipped with the most advanced systems in the world. The capabilities it includes will enable a more effective response to a variety of threats, and provide the Navy with state-of-the-art, cutting-edge tools.

"A clear example of the Ministry of Defence's firm commitment to the modernisation and improvement of resources for our Armed Forces", said Margarita Robles, who highlighted the importance of this programme for economic, industrial and employment dynamisation.

"Its construction in the Ferrol shipyard, with more than 500 participating companies, is a driver of growth and employment for the region, the rest of Galicia and Spain. It is almost 4.9 billion euros of investment, 1,300 direct jobs in NAVANTIA, more than 2,000 in the ancillary industry, reaching the figure of 5,700 jobs with the entire supply chain".

Robles reiterated that the defence industry is synonymous with technology, development, research and advanced skills that make it possible to produce "a frigate like the 'Bonifaz': a multipurpose frigate among the most modern and capable in the world".

The minister reiterated that "the Ministry of Defence complies", as can be seen by the fact that this launching, which was originally planned for the end of this year, has been brought forward. "We are working, overcoming the difficulties that may arise and coming out stronger," said Robles, on a day of "emotion and satisfaction for everyone".

F-110 Programme

The construction of five F-110 frigates between 2019 and 2031 is progressing well, with two units already in production, in addition to the 'Bonifaz'. The keel laying of the remaining two units is planned for the second quarters of 2029 and 2030, respectively.

These modern ships are equipped with a high degree of digitisation in all areas and with significant anti-aircraft, anti-surface, anti-submarine and cyber-security capabilities.

Non official translation