Navantia Puerto Real Begins Cutting Steel for BAM-IS

Navantia's shipyards in Puerto Real and San Fernando have started the production phase of a Maritime Action Ship for Underwater Intervention (BAM-IS) for the Navy and a high-seas patrol vessel for the Royal Moroccan Navy this Monday.

In both cases, the operation involved cutting the first steel plate of a pilot block to fine-tune the production systems. The construction of this block, which belongs to the ship's engine room, will allow the new digital design, control, and management tools implemented in the shipyards to be activated and tested, Navantia reports. The BAM-IS will be the first ship built at the Puerto Real shipyard to utilize these tools.

The BAM-IS, which will be named “Poseidon” – as previously announced by puentedemando.com – will be the specialized platform equipped for the rescue and support of submarines. Similarly, it will be the Navy's main unit for supporting diving operations, presumably replacing the rescue ship “Neptune” in 2026.

The construction of the BAM-IS addresses a need associated with the S-80 submarines to provide support and ensure the safety of the crews throughout their operational life.

The BAM-IS vessel has a modular character. With its large working deck, over 400 m2, it allows for the installation of different modular systems that enable it to be configured for various mission profiles: diving operations, submarine rescue, and underwater heritage protection. To this end, it will feature an innovative propulsion and power generation plant, based on continuous current technologies, energy storage systems, and cycloidal propellers, providing the capability to maintain dynamic positioning with high precision even in adverse weather conditions, all while complying with the most stringent environmental standards.

Additionally, this new unit for the Navy will be capable of operating with NATO's Submarine Rescue System (NSRS). This feature, among others, will allow it to obtain for the first time a MOSHIP certification for acting as a mother ship for NATO's Submarine Rescue and Salvage systems. It will also be equipped with unmanned vehicles (ROVs) capable of conducting remote underwater explorations and interventions.

Patrol Vessel for Morocco

At the San Fernando shipyard, similar operations have been undertaken in the manufacturing workshop to build a high-seas patrol vessel for the Royal Moroccan Navy.

The construction of this patrol vessel for Morocco also includes a package of technical-logistical support (spare parts, tools, and technical documentation), including technical training services for the personnel of the Royal Moroccan Navy in Spain.

The patrol vessel is a solution that guarantees long deployment periods at sea, with very low operating and life cycle costs. To achieve this, the design of its systems aims to maintain operability, maintainability, and reliability with a reduced crew.

Photo: Navantia