Colombian state-owned shipyard COTECMAR has achieved a significant milestone with the delivery of an Ocean Patrol Vessel to the navy, as part of a program initiated in 2016. The vessel, named “ARC 24 de Julio,” represents the Colombian Navy’s first acquisition of the largest and most complex warship designed and assembled entirely within the country.
The handover ceremony took place at the Naval Base ARC Bolívar in Cartagena and was presided over by Colombian Navy Commander Adm. Juan Ricardo Rozo Obregón, according to reports from Naval News. The construction of the vessel commenced in March 2023 and spanned nearly two years, utilizing over 1,070 tons (2.3 million pounds) of steel for its fabrication. Following its launch in July, the ship underwent six months of field evaluations and final outfitting.
This initiative has not only advanced Colombia’s naval capabilities but also created substantial employment opportunities, supporting over 1,100 direct jobs and an additional 2,200 positions through a network of 343 suppliers. In commenting on the significance of this achievement, COTECMAR President Vice Adm. Luis Fernando Márquez Velosa referred to the transfer as a “tangible demonstration” of Colombia’s industrial expertise and collaborative efforts to produce a competitive naval platform.
The specifications of the ARC 24 de Julio highlight its capabilities, measuring 93 meters (305 feet) in length and having a beam of 14 meters (46 feet). The vessel is designed with a flight deck to accommodate medium maritime helicopters and is equipped for extended patrol, surveillance, interdiction, and search and rescue missions, particularly in the Caribbean and Pacific regions.
While COTECMAR has yet to disclose details regarding the ship’s propulsion and performance systems, the ARC 24 de Julio is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of other vessels under Bogotá’s “PF2030” large-scale naval modernization plan. This comprehensive strategy includes the construction of Sigma-class frigates in collaboration with Dutch shipyard Damen, with the aim of delivering its lead hull by 2030.
