The Spanish Navy has laid the keel for a new diver support vessel, NC 739, at Freire Shipyard in Vigo, marking a key milestone in modernizing its underwater training fleet. The initiative reflects Spain’s commitment to enhancing coastal security and strengthening its military diving capabilities.
Designed specifically for the Spanish Diving School, NC 739 is a compact yet highly specialized platform. Measuring 32.9 meters in length with a 9-meter beam, a 500-nautical-mile range, and accommodation for 15 personnel, the vessel is optimized for controlled training missions and coastal operations. It features DP-2 dynamic positioning for precision station-keeping, a hyperbaric chamber for safe decompression and medical support, and a wet bell allowing divers to operate at depths of up to 90 meters. Side-scan sonar and unmanned underwater vehicle support enable autonomous inspections, search-and-recovery, and seabed survey operations.
The project is the result of a structured development cycle informed by operational experience and the renewal of the auxiliary fleet. NC 739 relieves larger surface units from routine diving tasks while providing a fully integrated platform for deep-water training, hull inspections, underwater repairs, and post-incident investigations. Its compact size and advanced systems allow effective maneuvering in constrained coastal zones, port approaches, and shallow waters.
With ecological technologies and optimized power systems, the vessel achieves lower operating costs and reduced emissions. Strategically, NC 739 enhances Spain’s preparedness for underwater security missions and strengthens its role in multinational exercises, consolidating its position as a leader in military diving training and operations. Delivery is scheduled for 2026, marking a new era in Spain’s underwater operational capabilities.
