Of the three branches of the Peruvian Armed Forces, it is the Navy (MGP) that has made the most progress in its technological modernization process and the incorporation of new units. Therefore, the evolution of the ambitious upgrade program of one of the most important surface forces in the South Pacific is closely monitored.
Today, its power is based on ships with more than 40 years of service: the Italian-patented “Lupo” type missile frigates, of which there were eight units. The BAP Carbajal and BAP Villavicencio were built at SIMA Peru, which incorporated an interesting improvement: the enlargement of the flight deck to operate, in addition to the Agusta Bell AB212 ASW, with the larger and heavier Augusta Sikorsky ASH-3D “Sea King”.
This and other experiences, such as the production of oil tankers, cargo ships, multipurpose amphibious vessels, and even the BAP Unión, the largest sailboat on the continent, position this shipyard among the most important in Latin America.
And as a natural partner of that international company awarded the project for the construction, in a first stage, of a Multirole Vessel, an OPV Oceanic Patrol Vessel, and two Auxiliary Logistic Transport Units.
The plans of the high command led by Admiral Luis José Polar Figari are ambitious and aim to incorporate a total of six new multirole vessels, three OPVs, four maritime patrol vessels, four coastal auxiliary vessels, four submarines, and two oil tankers.
News are expected in the coming weeks, amid great anticipation as the estimated investment exceeds USD $430 million in this phase, which will also lead to job creation in the country.
For now, the first U-209-1200 (B.A.P. Chipana) locally upgraded with advice from the German manufacturer ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems – out of four planned – has already begun sea trials and is about to become the “newest” warship of the Peruvian Navy.
*Photographs used for illustration purposes.
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