The Colombian Navy has taken delivery of a newly built Ocean Patrol Vessel from state-owned shipbuilder COTECMAR, continuing a national shipbuilding program launched in 2016. The vessel, ARC 24 de Julio, represents the most advanced and largest warship ever designed and constructed entirely within Colombia.
Work on the ship began in March 2023 and was completed after almost two years, utilizing more than 1,070 tons of steel. Following its launch in July 2025, the vessel completed six months of sea trials and final outfitting ahead of formal handover.
Beyond its operational role, the program delivered substantial industrial benefits, supporting over 1,100 direct jobs and more than 2,200 indirect jobs across 343 supplier companies. The ARC 24 de Julio measures 93 meters in length, has a 14-meter beam, and includes a flight deck designed to accommodate medium-sized maritime helicopters.
The ship is configured to conduct long-endurance patrol, maritime surveillance, interdiction, and search-and-rescue missions, particularly in Colombia’s Caribbean and Pacific regions. While COTECMAR has yet to release propulsion and performance details, the vessel will contribute to the navy’s PF2030 fleet renewal strategy, which also encompasses the local construction of Sigma-class frigates in cooperation with Damen, with the lead ship scheduled for delivery by 2030.
