Navantia has launched the sixth corvette for the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) at its San Fernando shipyard, marking a key milestone in the second batch of the ALSARAWAT Project. The vessel, HMS Almadinah, is the first unit under the second contract between the Ministry of Defence of Saudi Arabia and Navantia.
The launch ceremony was attended by senior institutional and industry representatives and hosted by Navantia Chairman Ricardo Domínguez. The event included formal proceedings and remarks from programme and naval leadership.
Speaking on behalf of the RSNF Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Saleh Al Khathami said, “we celebrate together a significant milestone in the second batch of ALSARAWAT Project, the launching of HMS ALMADINAH”. He added, “on this special occasion, RSNF would like to express its sincere appreciation to Navantia’s longstanding commitment and outstanding efforts throughout the project and to the valuable support provided by the Spanish Navy throughout this important endeavor. Today the sea welcomes (HMS ALMADINAH) and tomorrow she will contribute to safeguarding the Kingdom’s maritime interests and supporting regional and international stability”.
Navantia Chairman Ricardo Domínguez highlighted the programme’s execution, stating, “we are proud that, throughout both series of corvettes, all vessels have been delivered on time, within budget and in full alignment with our localisation commitments to the Kingdom, especially with GAMI.” He further noted, “over the years, Navantia has proved to be a reliable and trusted partner of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and the Ministry of Defence. We remain committed to supporting their future ambitions — including frigates, minehunters, and submarines — in a spirit of friendship and long-term cooperation”.
The second series comprises three corvettes, with final delivery scheduled for 2029. While the first vessel will be commissioned in Spain, the remaining units will be completed in Saudi Arabia, including combat system integration and testing.
The contract also includes an Integrated Logistic Support package, crew training, and an operational evaluation phase at the Rota Naval Base, where Navantia will continue to provide support services.
