Navantia secures employment in San Fernando with new contract

Navantia Secures Employment Future in San Fernando with New Corvette Contract for Saudi Arabia

The recent contract for the construction of three new corvettes for Saudi Arabia has been welcomed with enthusiasm by Navantia workers at the San Fernando shipyards, located in the Bahía de Cádiz. This agreement represents a significant workload for the coming years, estimated to generate around four million hours of employment, which could translate into the creation of up to 2,000 jobs, both direct and indirect.

Fernando Zazpe, chairman of the works council at Navantia San Fernando, highlighted in statements to the press that the new project poses "a tremendous challenge" for the team, given that delivery deadlines are "very tight". The three corvettes must be ready by 2028, requiring a major commitment and effort from the workers. "It is absolutely necessary to meet the established milestones, which have been shortened compared to what we previously had," Zazpe commented.

Despite the pressure, the union leader called the news "fantastic" and mentioned that they are still waiting for more details on the contract from Navantia executives. In addition, Zazpe referred to the upcoming vote on December 17, which will ratify the collective bargaining agreement negotiated this year. He warned that a negative outcome could force an acceleration of the labor situation, given that Navantia's current commitment is critical.

"It is fundamental to honor agreements and contracts, as the image and contractual implications are significant. Therefore, the pressure on workers will be intense to achieve the objectives," added the chairman of the local works council.

The San Fernando shipyards will be responsible for building a second series of three Avante 2200 corvettes, similar to those already delivered to the Royal Saudi Navy. Construction will begin this year, with the delivery of the final unit scheduled for 2028. Navantia will handle the delivery of the first unit, while the next two will be completed in Saudi Arabia, where the installation, integration, and testing of the combat system will be carried out, just as was done in the previous contract between both entities.