Spanish shipbuilder Navantia has launched Neom, the seventh corvette being constructed for the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, marking another milestone in the country’s naval modernization programme. The vessel is the second of three ships ordered under a follow-on contract signed in 2025. Its launch took place at Navantia’s San Fernando shipyard in the Bay of Cádiz, Spain, following the completion of construction work on the first five corvettes. The three additional vessels are being built at the company’s San Fernando and Puerto Real facilities, with the final ship scheduled for delivery in 2029. Following its launch, Neom will undergo systems integration, testing and sea trials before entering operational service. The broader agreement also includes crew training and integrated logistics support to facilitate the vessels’ introduction into the Saudi fleet. The new corvettes are based on Navantia’s AVANTE 2200 design, which was also used for the original five Saudi ships. Designed for maritime surveillance, search-and-rescue operations and the protection of strategic assets, the vessels combine patrol capabilities with a broad range of combat functions. Their capabilities include anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, as well as intelligence gathering and electronic warfare. The ships are equipped with several systems supplied by Navantia, including the HAZEM combat management system and HERMESYS integrated communications system. Additional equipment comprises the DORNA fire-control system, MINERVA integrated bridge and an integrated platform management system. The launch of Neom advances Saudi Arabia’s efforts to expand its naval fleet and strengthen maritime security capabilities.
