Uruguay maritime patrol vessel procurement

Following the rescission of a contract with the Spanish shipyard Cardama, the Uruguayan government has revised its maritime procurement strategy. Officials stated the previous agreement was rescinded because the state was “defrauded” by a false guarantee, a move expected to save between US$50 million and US$60 million.

The Ministry of Defense has shifted its focus from acquiring two oceanic patrol vessels (OPV) to purchasing a single new vessel, estimated to cost approximately US$100 million. This new vessel will be part of a broader surveillance system supplemented by technology and used vessels. President Yamandú Orsi indicated the acquisition will follow a “state-to-state” model rather than an open tender, prioritizing financing terms alongside price.

Potential bidders for the single vessel include South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries, Colombia’s Cotecmar, and France’s Naval Group. The government is also exploring the possibility of receiving two patrol boats from the United Kingdom as donations. A final decision on the procurement is expected by the end of the year.