Spanish shipbuilder C.N.P. FREIRE, S.A. has signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration to deliver four new vessels designed for naval support missions. The program is positioned as a capability upgrade focused on operational logistics, day to day support tasks, and response readiness, expanding Sweden’s ability to sustain maritime activities with dedicated platforms built for utility rather than frontline combat.

 

Core Vessel Design and Operating Profile

 

Each ship is planned at 47 metres in length with a top speed of up to 12 knots and an endurance of up to 10 days. The accommodation layout is set for a crew of 16, indicating a design built for compact operations with enough endurance to support multi-day missions without frequent port calls, a practical requirement for coastal logistics and support work in variable conditions.

 

Deck Handling and Autonomous Cargo Operations

 

The vessels are specified with two main cranes on the main deck and an additional auxiliary crane intended for supplies, enabling loading and unloading without relying on external shore equipment. A stern ramp is also included to bring wheeled cargo onboard, a feature that strengthens flexibility for moving equipment and supplies quickly, particularly when operating in dispersed locations where port infrastructure may be limited or unavailable.

 

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Propulsion Architecture and Emissions Performance

 

Propulsion is based on a diesel electric system using four variable speed generators paired with direct current distribution. This configuration is presented as a route to higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared with conventional arrangements, while also supporting smoother power management for demanding auxiliary loads typical of support vessels. The design is described as meeting high environmental standards, aligning with the broader trend of naval and government fleets prioritising efficiency and emissions reductions alongside performance.

 

Ice Capability, Manoeuvrability, and Operational Value

 

The ships are expected to operate in ice conditions and withstand harsh weather, reflecting the realities of Nordic operating environments where seasonal ice and severe sea states can constrain availability. Manoeuvrability is supported through azimuth fixed pitch propellers and bow thrusters, improving control during close-quarters work such as alongside operations, cargo handling, and station keeping. With these vessels, FMV strengthens Sweden’s ability to move equipment, sustain missions, and respond with greater self-sufficiency, increasing the resilience of naval support functions across a wider range of scenarios.