The Royal Moroccan Navy has received its new Avante 1800 offshore patrol vessel, built by Spanish firm Navantia, at the San Fernando shipyard in southern Spain.
Alongside the compact, multi-role corvette, Rabat will receive a complete technical support package that includes spare parts, tools, manuals, and training for Moroccan naval personnel.
The vessel is built to support various missions, including protecting the country’s exclusive economic zones through surveillance and controlling strategic maritime areas.
Construction of the vessel began in July 2023.
Avante 1800
The ship measures 87 meters (285 feet) in length with a beam of 13 meters (43 feet) and is designed to accommodate a crew of up to 60 people.
Its stealthy hull reduces radar visibility, while its onboard systems are engineered to be easy to operate and maintain, allowing the ship to function effectively with a reduced crew.
Powered by diesel engines to balance endurance with efficiency, it can support coastal patrols and open-sea deployments.
Avante 1800 has a 3D surveillance radar, electro-optical sensors, electronic warfare capabilities, and an integrated combat management system.
Its weapons configuration includes a medium-caliber naval gun, missile launchers for air and surface threats, and close-in defense systems.
A flight deck at the rear also allows for the operation of a medium-sized helicopter, extending its reconnaissance and response range.
The milestone is a “testimony of the shared commitment between Spain and Morocco for security and technological excellence,” stated Navantia President Ricardo Domínguez.
