The Spanish Navy is doubling down on its diving capabilities with a cutting-edge new vessel. Freire Shipyard in Vigo has laid the keel for the Navy’s next-generation Diver Support Vessel (EAB), a specialized platform designed to elevate the training and operational readiness of the Navy’s Diving School (EMB). Scheduled for delivery in November 2026, this vessel isn’t just another ship—it’s a floating hub for deep-diving expertise, equipped to handle everything from training to underwater interventions at depths of up to 90 meters.
The EAB will be a game-changer for the Navy’s diving operations. Outfitted with DP-2 dynamic positioning, a hyperbaric chamber, and a wet bell, it’s built for precision and safety. Dynamic positioning will keep the vessel steady in challenging conditions, while the hyperbaric chamber and wet bell enable deep-diving operations and emergency medical support. This isn’t just about training—it’s about maintaining operational superiority in underwater missions.
For the Spanish Navy, this vessel reinforces its position as a leader in diving training, both at home and on the international stage. The Navy’s Diving School (EMB) has long been a benchmark for excellence, and the EAB will ensure that standard is maintained. As the Navy continues to invest in specialized platforms like this, it’s clear that underwater capabilities are a strategic priority. Whether it’s mine clearance, salvage operations, or deep-sea research, the EAB will be a critical asset in keeping Spain at the forefront of maritime diving.
The keel-laying ceremony in Vigo marks the start of a new chapter in the Navy’s diving operations. With delivery still a year and a half away, the focus now shifts to construction, testing, and integration. But one thing is certain: when the EAB joins the fleet in 2026, it will bring with it a new level of capability, ensuring the Navy’s divers are ready for any challenge.