F-105 Frigate "Cristóbal Colón" Prepares for Final Sea Trials

June 22, 2012 defpro.com

Navantia and the Spanish Navy will start final sea trials of the F-105 frigate “Cristóbal Colón” next Monday, in Ferrol (Northern Spain), which will last all week.

During these sea trials, the shipyard will test the correct integration of the combat system in the platform, including trials of all sensors and weapons on board, as anti-air, anti-surface, anti-submarine, electronic war and communications exercises.

For the performance of several combat scenarios, Navantia will count on the collaboration of other surface units, including a F-100 class frigate, as well as land radio stations and communication satellites.

Navantia has integrated the combat system SPY-1D (V) version on board, making the F-105 the most advanced of all the F-100 class. Also, it incorporates the highest level of nacionalization in sensors and weapons, which has been a big challenge for the shipyard.

The sea trials will take place with more than 300 people on board, including Navantia staff, Spanish Navy and auxiliary industry. It is also expected to receive Australian staff, as part of the training program that Navantia is providing regarding the AWD’s contract, a design based on the F-105.

F-105 “CRISTÓBAL COLÓN”

Main features:
• Waterline Length: ........................ 133.20 m
• Full Load Displacement: ............... 6,041 t
• Full Load Draught: ....................... 5.00 m
• Maximum speed: ......................... 28.5 knots
• Cruising speed: ........................... 18 knots
• Endurance at Cruising Speed: ....... 4,500 miles
• Crew: ......................................... 234 persons

Significant shipbuilding data:
• Number of compartments: ............ 573
• Tons of Hull Steel: ....................... 2.450 t
• Metres of cable: .......................... 315.000 m
• Metres of piping: ......................... 37.000 m