CNI and Defense Warn About Risks of Chinese SAIC Plant Near Ferrol Naval Base and Navantia Shipyard

The project by Chinese manufacturer SAIC Motor to establish a factory in Ferrol has raised concerns within the Ministry of Defense and CNI due to its proximity to the Ferrol Arsenal and the Navantia shipyards, which are crucial for military matters, reports La Voz de Galicia.

Both entities warn of potential national security risks due to the location of the future plant, which is very close to the Navy's facilities and Navantia. Among the analyzed risks are possible espionage activities, as well as threats related to cybersecurity or electronic warfare.

The SAIC project involves an investment of 200 million euros and would create around 1,000 jobs, making Ferrol the first European location for the Chinese manufacturer. Both the Government and the Xunta de Galicia defend the industrial importance of the initiative, although the warnings from Defense and CNI have sparked a debate on how to balance investment with the protection of military facilities.

The Ferrol Arsenal is one of the main logistical support centers for the Navy. Its facilities carry out maintenance, modernization, supply, and support work for the ships of the Force. The Navantia shipyards currently concentrate a significant part of the construction program for the new F-110 frigates, one of Spain's most important military naval projects.

The SAIC plant is expected to be operational by 2028, coinciding with the delivery of the first frigate of the series.

Photo: Navantia