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Spain Commissions EU-Backed Duque de Ahumada Patrol Ship for the Guardia Civil

Officials say the vessel strengthens border control as well as rescue capacity.

Overview

  • Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska presided over the delivery in Vigo, calling the ship a demonstration of quality and European cooperation.
  • The project cost €35 million, with €32 million from EU funds, according to local reporting at the handover ceremony.
  • The 82‑metre vessel offers 30 days of autonomy and a range above 11,000 nautical miles, with space for 44 crew plus 12 additional personnel.
  • Humanitarian outfitting includes capacity for more than 300 rescued people, separate areas for men, women and children, a sickbay and morgue, a helipad with space for two helicopters, two high‑speed boats and an ROV rated to 1,000 metres.
  • Based in Cádiz, the ship is slated to join coordinated European operations for at least four months, and it replaces the long-serving patrol vessel Río Miño.