수상전투함 도입을 추진중인 아르헨티나 해군

[위종민]

아르헨티나가 부품 부족으로 장기간 활동을 못하고 있다가 2024년 대체함 없이 퇴역한 42형 구축함 ARA Hércules와 MEKO 360(알미란테 브라운급) ARA Héroina를 대체하기 위해 유럽 국가들이 조만간 퇴역시킬 중고 수상전투함 도입을 추진중이네요. 덴마크의 이베르 휘트펠트급, 이탈리아의 마에스트랄레급, 노르웨이의 프리초프 난센급 프리깃이 물망에 오르고 있습니다. 이베르 휘트펠트급이나 난센급에 비해 마에스트랄레급은 40년이 넘은 함정이네요. 

ARA Hércules는 2000년에 대공, 대함미사일을 다 빼버리고 다목적 수송함으로 개조됐었다고 합니다. 

아르헨티나 해군, 유럽산 대체 프리깃 도입 모색 게재일: 2025/09/15 작성자: Frederik Van Lokeren 뉴스

아르헨티나 해군, 유럽산 대체 프리깃 도입 모색 아이버 휘트펠트급 HDMS Peter Willemoes (F362) (덴마크 해군 사진) 공유

아르헨티나 해군은 노후화되어 비활성 상태인 프리깃 ARA Hércules와 ARA Héroina를 대체하기 위해 다목적 프리깃 2척을 도입하려 한다고 최근 발표했다. 이미 이탈리아의 마에스트랄레급, 덴마크의 아이버 휘트펠트급, 노르웨이의 프리초프 난센급 등 여러 후보가 검토되고 있다.

이 두 척의 프리깃은 아르헨티나 해군이 과거에 상실한 능력을 회복하도록 해줄 것이다. 이번 구매는 아르헨티나 해군이 제시한 세 가지 우선순위 중 하나로, 첫 번째는 신형 잠수함 소요, 두 번째가 다목적 프리깃 2척 도입, 세 번째가 잔존 MEKO 360 구축함의 현대화이다. 해당 함급은 아르헨티나 해군에서 알미란테 브라운급으로도 알려져 있다. 이 현대화는 터키 해군의 MEKO-200급에서 수행된 작업을 바탕으로 터키 전자기업 ASELSAN이 제안하고 있다.

아르헨티나는 상실한 능력의 대체를 원한다 아르헨티나 해군은 비활성 프리깃 ARA Hércules와 ARA Héroina를 대체할 두 척의 다목적 프리깃을 시급히 찾고 있다. 두 선박은 기계적 문제와 수리 불능으로 10년 넘게 비활성 상태였다. 2024년부로 두 선박은 아르헨티나 해군에서 40년이 넘는 복무를 마치고 공식적으로 현역에서 퇴역했다.

ARA Hércules는 시필드급으로도 알려진 타입 42급 구축함으로 1976년 아르헨티나 해군에 편입되었다. 2000년경 이 선박은 구축함에서 다목적 수송함으로 개조되었다. 개조 과정에서 비행갑판과 격납고를 확대하고 해병 238명을 탑승시키기 위한 공간을 마련하기 위해, 대공·대함 미사일 체계가 제거된 것으로 전해진다. 2020년까지 이 선박은 작전불능으로 보고되었다. 이 구축함은 터빈 소실로 인해 10년 이상 운용에서 이탈한 것으로 알려졌다.

ARA Héroina는 MEKO 360 구축함으로, 아르헨티나 해군에서는 알미란테 브라운급으로도 알려져 있다. 이 선박은 ‘슬로 휠(slow wheel)’로 보고된 핵심 구성품의 고장을 겪었다. 이 부품은 2010년에 분리되어 영국으로 재생정을 위해 보내졌다. 그러나 재생정은 영국의 거부권에 직면한 것으로 알려지며, 아르헨티나가 해당 부품을 확보하지 못하도록 가로막고 있다. 아르헨티나 해군은 여전히 MEKO 360급 구축함 3척을 운용 중이다. 이 선박들 역시 노후화되고 있으나, 현대화를 통해 수명을 연장할 계획이 있다.

아르헨티나 해군은 ARA Hércules와 ARA Héroina를 대체할 함정을 신조로 할지 중고로 할지 특정하지 않았다. 하비에르 밀레이 정부가 인플레이션을 낮추고 아르헨티나 경제의 균형을 맞추는 데 진전을 보였지만, 아르헨티나 해군에 가용한 재정은 신조함 획득이 “복잡한 과업”임을 의미한다.

예산 제약이 아르헨티나 해군으로 하여금 중고 프리깃, 가급적이면 최근에 현대화되었거나 (중간)수명 연장을 받은 선박을 찾도록 압박하고 있을 가능성이 높다. 이러한 선박은 아르헨티나 해군이 양호한 무장과 센서를 갖춘 비교적 현대적인 군함을 운용하게 하며, 향후 20년 동안도 관련성을 유지하도록 해줄 것이다. 잔존 수상전력의 고령화를 고려하면, 이 두 척의 다목적 선박은 가까운 미래에 아르헨티나 해군 내에서 가장 첨단이고 중요한 수상 전투함이 될 가능성이 크다.

세 가지 잠재 후보 7월 22일, 아르헨티나 국방부 국제업무차관 후안 바탈레메는 아르헨티나 해군이 아이버 휘트펠트급 프리깃 2척을 인수하기 위해 덴마크 해군과 협상 중이라고 트위터에 밝혔다. 이 선박들은 비교적 현대적이고, 수직발사기와 대함미사일 등으로 중무장되어 있으며 주로 방공을 위해 설계되었지만 다중 임무 수행이 가능하다.

최근 덴마크 합참의장은 업그레이드 비용과 덴마크 해군이 이미 신형 방공 프리깃 도입을 추진 중이라는 점을 근거로 아이버 휘트펠트급의 중간수명 업그레이드 포기를 권고했다. 업그레이드 취소 결정은 2024년 홍해에서 ‘오퍼레이션 프로스퍼리티 가디언’에 참가한 기간 동안 기함 HDMS Iver Huitfeldt가 여러 기술적 문제를 겪었다는 사실도 일부 작용했다. 이 기술적 문제는 예멘의 후티 반군이 발사한 UAV의 공중 공격 하에서 함정의 전반적 전투 성능을 약화시켰다. 전투 중 어느 시점에는 방공체계를 재부팅해야 했고, 그로 인해 프리깃은 30분간 전투에서 이탈했다. 이 사건으로 해당 함정은 당초보다 2주 앞서 작전에서 철수해야 했다. 다만 덴마크 합참의장은 아이버 휘트펠트급을 폐기 또는 매각하기보다는 무장을 감축하고 소형 다이아나급 초계함을 대체하는 초계함으로 재역할화할 것을 권고했다.

마에스트랄레급 프리깃 마에스트랄레급 프리깃. 이탈리아 국방부 사진. 두 번째 잠재 후보는 후안 바탈레메의 언급에 따르면 이탈리아의 마에스트랄레급 프리깃이다. 이 선택지는 상륙수송함의 잠재 구매에 관한 트위터 논의 중 제시되었는데, 이 자리에서 바탈레메는 아르헨티나 해군이 대안으로 마에스트랄레급에서 선박을 확보할 수 있을 것이라고 밝혔다. 덴마크 정부와의 아이버 휘트펠트급 구매 협상이 결렬되었는지, 아니면 아르헨티나가 단지 다른 대안을 검토하고 있는지 여부는 불분명했다.

가장 가능성 높은 경우, 아르헨티나는 “Grecale”과 “Libeccio”의 구매를 검토할 것이다. 이 선박들은 2024년에 퇴역했으며, 개장을 거쳐 복귀할 수 있다. 두 선박은 복무 기간이 40년을 넘고, 무장 체계는 현재 아르헨티나 해군이 운용 중인 체계와 유사한 범주에 있다.

최근 인터뷰에서 아르헨티나 해군참모총장 카를로스 알리에비 제독은, 자국이 노르웨이의 선박, 특히 프리초프 난센급 인수를 검토 중이라고 밝혔다. 이 선박들은 아이버 휘트펠트급과 유사한 능력을 제공하지만, Mk 41 수직발사기 8셀 2기만 탑재하고 대함미사일도 8발에 불과하여 무장은 다소 약하다. 다만 이 급은 아이버 휘트펠트급의 하푼 미사일과 달리 네발 스트라이크 미사일(NSM)을 탑재한다.

노르웨이 사진은 프리초프 난센급 함정 HNoMS Otto Sverdrup. 노르웨이 해군 사진. 프리초프 난센급은 전투 능력 유지를 위한 현대화가 예정되어 있다. 그러나 덴마크 해군과 마찬가지로, 노르웨이 해군 역시 향후 10년 내에 신형 영국형 타입 26 프리깃으로 교체할 계획이며, 2030년부터 인도가 시작될 예정이다. 프리초프 난센급이 노르웨이 해군 내에서 새로운 역할을 부여받을지, 아니면 매각 대상으로 전환될지는 불분명하다. 어느 쪽이든, 노르웨이의 타입 26 프리깃 구매가 아르헨티나가 노르웨이와도 협상을 시작하여 프리초프 난센급 2척을 인수할 가능성을 모색하도록 만든 것으로 보인다.

결론 아르헨티나 해군은 상실한 해군 능력을 회복하고 퇴역한 ARA Hércules와 ARA Héroina를 대체하기 위해 두 척의 다목적 프리깃 도입에 나선 것으로 보인다. 여러 선택지가 아르헨티나 해군에 제시되었지만, 예산 제약으로 인해 중고 군함을 모색하는 것으로 보인다.

아르헨티나 해군이 주로 선호하는 선택지는 덴마크의 아이버 휘트펠트급으로 보인다. 이 선박들은 비교적 신형이며, 첫 함정이 2012년에 취역했다. 따라서 2040년대까지 유효한 수상 전투함으로 남을 수 있으며, 거래가 성사될 경우 두 선박은 가까운 미래에 아르헨티나의 주력 군함 역할을 수행할 수 있다. 덴마크는 다음 10년 내에 더 강력한 프리깃으로 아이버 휘트펠트급을 대체하려 하고 있으나, 아이버 휘트펠트급을 매각할 의사가 있는지는 아직 밝히지 않았다. 아이버 휘트펠트급을 초계함으로 격하하는 것이 덴마크 해군의 선호 옵션으로 보이지만, 아르헨티나가 필요한 개량 비용을 부담한다면 덴마크가 재고하여 아이버 휘트펠트급의 현대화를 수용할지는 불분명하다.

동일한 수준에서 노르웨이의 프리초프 난센급 인수 가능성도 있다. 덴마크와 마찬가지로, 노르웨이도 이 선박들을 더 강력한 군함으로 교체할 계획이다. 영국형 타입 26 프리깃 구매로, 노르웨이는 이미 교체 절차를 더 앞서 진행 중이다. 덴마크의 경우와 마찬가지로, 노르웨이 해군이 프리초프 난센급을 아르헨티나에 판매할 의사가 있는지, 아니면 자국 내 다른 역할로 재배치할지는 불분명하다. 구매가 가능하다면, 프리초프 난센급의 인도 시점은 덴마크의 아이버 휘트펠트급보다 잠재적으로 더 빠를 수 있다.

이탈리아의 마에스트랄레급 가능성은 보다 최후의 대안에 가까워 보인다. 확보 가능 선박인 “Grecale”과 “Libeccio”는 이미 40년을 복무하여, 개장 기간 이후 추가 운용수명은 제한적일 것이며, 두 선박이 제공하는 전투 능력 역시 아르헨티나 해군이 현재 보유한 MEKO 360/알미란테 브라운급 3척과 비교해 크게 향상된다고 보기는 어렵다.

태그 Argentine Navy, Fridtjof Nansen, Iver Huitfeldt-class

프레데릭 반 로케런 사진 Frederik Van Lokeren Frederik Van Lokeren은 벨기에 해군에서 7년간 복무한 전직 해군 중위로, 군수와 해양 정보 분야에서 훈련을 받았다. 이후 프리랜서 해양 분석가로 활동하며 전략·작전 수준의 해군 발전에 대해 정기적으로 글을 쓰고 있다. 그의 주요 전문 분야는 러시아 해군으로, 개인 블로그 ‘Russian Navy – News and Analysis’에서 동향을 추적한다. 또한 유럽 해군과 인도·태평양 지역의 해양 동향도 지속적으로 살펴보고 있다.

Argentine Navy Eyes European Replacement Frigates - Naval News

Argentine Navy Eyes European Replacement Frigates

• Published on 15/09/2025
• By Frederik Van Lokeren
• In News

Iver Huitfeldt-class HDMS Peter Willemoes (F362) (Royal Danish Navy picture)

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The Argentine Navy recently announced that it is attempting to acquire two multipurpose frigates in order to replace the aging and inactive frigates ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Several possible candidates have already been identified such as the Italian Maestrale-class, the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class and the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class.

The two frigates will allow the Argentine Navy to regain previously lost capabilities. The purchase is one of three priorities set forth by the Argentine Navy with the first priority aiming to require new submarines, the second priority the purchase of two multipurpose frigates and the third priority the modernization of the remaining MEK0 360 destroyers. The latter class is also known as the Almirante Brown-class in the Argentine Navy. This modernization is being offered by the Turkish electronics company ASELSAN based on the work that has been done on the Turkish vessels of the MEKO-200 class.

Argentina seeks to replace lost capabilities

The Argentine Navy is urgently looking for two multipurpose frigates that need to replace the inactive frigates ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Both vessels have been inactive for over a decade due to mechanical issues and the inability of getting them repaired. As of 2024, both vessels were officially retired from active service, after having a career of more than four decades with the Argentine Navy.

The ARA Hercules is a Type 42 class destroyer, also known as the Sheffield-class, which joined the Argentine Navy in 1976. Around 2000, the vessel was converted from a destroyer into a multipurpose transport ship. During the conversion, her anti-aircraft and anti-ship missile systems were reportedly removed in order to enlarge the flight deck, hangar and provide for the accommodation for embarking 238 marines. By 2020, the vessel was reported to be non-operational. The destroyer reportedly has been out of service for over a decade due to the loss of its turbines.

The ARA Héroina is a MEKO 360 destroyer, also known as the Almirante Brown-class in the Argentine Navy. This vessel had a breakdown in what is reported a vital component, the slow wheel. This component was removed in 2010 and send to England for reconditioning. However, the reconditioning allegedly faces a British veto, preventing Argentina from acquiring the component. The Argentine Navy still operates three more MEKO 360-class destroyers. Though these vessels are also aging, there are plans to modernize these vessels and extend their service life.

The Argentine Navy didn’t specify if it wants new or second-hand frigates to replace the ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Though the government of Javier Milei succeeded in reducing inflation and made headway in balancing the Argentine economy, the finances available to the Argentine Navy means that acquiring newly build vessels are a “complex endeavour”.

It is probable that budgetary restraints are pushing the Argentine Navy in looking for second-hand frigates, preferably vessels that have just been modernized or underwent a (mid)life extension. Such vessels would allow the Argentine Navy to operate relatively modern warships with good weaponry and sensors, which will also remain relevant for the next two decades. Given the high age of the remaining Argentine surface fleet, these two multipurpose vessels will likely become the most advanced and relevant surface warships within the Argentine Navy in the foreseeable future.

Three possible contenders identified

On July 22, the Secretary of International Affairs for the Argentine Ministry of Defence Juan Battaleme reported on twitter that the Argentine Navy is in negotiations with the Danish Navy to acquire two  frigates of the Iver Huitfeldt-class. These vessels are relatively modern and heavily armed with vertical launch cells, anti-ships missiles and primarily designed for air defence though they can perform multiple missions.

Recently, the Dannish Chief of Defence recommended abandoning the mid-life upgrade of the Iver Huitfeldt-class based on the fact of the cost of the upgrade while the Danish Navy is already looking to acquire new air defence frigates. The decision to cancel the upgrade was in part also due to the fact that the lead vessel, the HDMS Iver Huitfeldt, experienced several technical issues during its deployment in the Red Sea in 2024 as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian. These technical issues undermined the general combat performance of the vessel while it was under air attack by UAVs launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen. At a point in the battle, the air defence systems had to be rebooted, causing the frigate to be out of action for 30 minutes. The incident forced the vessel to retire from Operation Prosperity Guardian two weeks earlier than anticipated. The Dannish Chief of Defence however did not recommend that the vessels of the Iver Huitfeldt-class to be scrapped or sold but to be downgraded in weaponry and repurpose as patrol vessels to replace the smaller Diana-class patrol vessels.

A Maestrale-class frigate. Italian MoD picture.

A second possible candidate are the Italian frigates of the Maestrale-class, according to statements made by Juan Battaleme. This choice was made during a twitter discussion regarding the probable purchase of an amphibious transport vessel during which Juan Battaleme stated that the Argentine Navy could probably acquire vessels from the Maestrale-class as a possible alternative. It was unclear if negotiations with the Danish government for the purchase of the Iver Huitfeldt-class fell through or that Argentina was just working out different alternatives.

Most likely, Argentina would study the purchase of the “Grecale” and “Libeccio“. These vessels were decommissioned in 2024 and could return back to service following a refit. These vessels do have a service life of over four decades and their weapon systems are in the same category as the ones the Argentine Navy currently operates.

In a recent interview, the Chief of the Argentine Navy, Admiral Carlos Allievi, stated that the country is also studying to acquire vessels from the Norway, most notably the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class. These vessels offer similar capabilities as the Iver Huitfeldt-class but are less well armed with only two 8-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch Systems and just eight anti-ship missiles though this class is equipped with the Naval Strike Missile compared to the Harpoon anti-ship missiles found on the Iver Huitfeldt-class.

Pictured is Fridtjof Nansen ship HNoMS Otto Sverdrup. Royal Norwegian Navy picture.

The Fridtjof Nansen-class is being scheduled to undergo modernization and maintain their combat capabilities. However, just as is the case with the Danish Navy, the Norwegian Navy is planning to replace the  Fridtjof Nansen-class within the decade by the new British Type 26 frigates with deliveries beginning in 2030. It is unclear if the Fridtjof Nansen class will be reassigned a new role within the Norwegian Navy or that it will become available for sales. Either way, it seems that the purchase of Type 26 frigates by Norway has convinced Argentina to also start negotiating with Norway to possibly acquire two frigates of the Fridtjof Nansen-class.

Conclusion

It appears the Argentine Navy is set on acquiring two multipurpose frigates in order to regain lost naval capabilities and replace the decommissioned warships ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Several options have become available to the Argentine Navy though probable budgetary constraints means that the navy is looking for second-hand warships.

It appears that the Argentine Navy is mainly looking at the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class as the preferred option. These vessels are relatively new, with the first vessel being commissioned in 2012. As such, these vessels could remain relevant surface combatants well into the 2040s and both vessels could serve as the principle Argentine warships in the near future if a deal can be made. Denmark is looking to replace the Iver Huitfeldt-class in the next decade by more capable frigates though it has so far not made any statements if it is willing to sell the Iver Huitfeldt-class. Downgrading the Iver Huitfeldt-class to patrol vessels appears the most preferred option for the Danish Navy though it is unclear if Denmark is willing to reconsider and modernize the Iver Huitfeldt-class if Argentine is willing to pay for the necessary upgrades.

At the same level there is the possibility of acquiring the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class. Just as Denmark, Norway is planning to replace these vessels with more capable warships. With the purchase of the British Type 26 frigate, Norway is already further down the process of replacing its frigates. Just as with Denmark, it is unclear if the Norwegian Navy is willing to sell frigates of the Fridtjof Nansen-class to Argentina or have these frigates repurposed for a different role in the Norwegian Navy. Should a purchase be possible, the delivery time of the Fridtjof Nansen-class could potentially be faster than the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class.

The possibility of the Italian Maestrale-class appears to be more of a last resort. The two available vessels, the “Grecale” and “Libeccio” have already served for four decades meaning that after a refit period, the additional service life will be minimal and the combat capabilities that both vessels provide does not appear to be a significant increase compared to what the Argentine Navy already has available with the remaining three vessels of the MEKO 360/ Almirante Brown-class.

Tags

• Argentine Navy, Fridtjof Nansen, Iver Huitfeldt-class

Frederik Van Lokeren

Frederik Van Lokeren is a former Navy Lieutenant, having served for seven years in the Belgian Navy where he was trained in logistics and maritime intelligence. Afterwards he’s been active as a freelance maritime analyst, regularly writing about naval developments on a strategic and operational level. His main area of expertise is the Russian Navy of which he keeps track on his personal blog Russian Navy – News and Analysis though he also keeps track of European navies and maritime developments in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Argentine Navy Eyes European Replacement Frigates

• Published on 15/09/2025
• By Frederik Van Lokeren
• In News

Iver Huitfeldt-class HDMS Peter Willemoes (F362) (Royal Danish Navy picture)

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The Argentine Navy recently announced that it is attempting to acquire two multipurpose frigates in order to replace the aging and inactive frigates ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Several possible candidates have already been identified such as the Italian Maestrale-class, the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class and the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class.

The two frigates will allow the Argentine Navy to regain previously lost capabilities. The purchase is one of three priorities set forth by the Argentine Navy with the first priority aiming to require new submarines, the second priority the purchase of two multipurpose frigates and the third priority the modernization of the remaining MEK0 360 destroyers. The latter class is also known as the Almirante Brown-class in the Argentine Navy. This modernization is being offered by the Turkish electronics company ASELSAN based on the work that has been done on the Turkish vessels of the MEKO-200 class.

Argentina seeks to replace lost capabilities

The Argentine Navy is urgently looking for two multipurpose frigates that need to replace the inactive frigates ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Both vessels have been inactive for over a decade due to mechanical issues and the inability of getting them repaired. As of 2024, both vessels were officially retired from active service, after having a career of more than four decades with the Argentine Navy.

The ARA Hercules is a Type 42 class destroyer, also known as the Sheffield-class, which joined the Argentine Navy in 1976. Around 2000, the vessel was converted from a destroyer into a multipurpose transport ship. During the conversion, her anti-aircraft and anti-ship missile systems were reportedly removed in order to enlarge the flight deck, hangar and provide for the accommodation for embarking 238 marines. By 2020, the vessel was reported to be non-operational. The destroyer reportedly has been out of service for over a decade due to the loss of its turbines.

The ARA Héroina is a MEKO 360 destroyer, also known as the Almirante Brown-class in the Argentine Navy. This vessel had a breakdown in what is reported a vital component, the slow wheel. This component was removed in 2010 and send to England for reconditioning. However, the reconditioning allegedly faces a British veto, preventing Argentina from acquiring the component. The Argentine Navy still operates three more MEKO 360-class destroyers. Though these vessels are also aging, there are plans to modernize these vessels and extend their service life.

The Argentine Navy didn’t specify if it wants new or second-hand frigates to replace the ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Though the government of Javier Milei succeeded in reducing inflation and made headway in balancing the Argentine economy, the finances available to the Argentine Navy means that acquiring newly build vessels are a “complex endeavour”.

It is probable that budgetary restraints are pushing the Argentine Navy in looking for second-hand frigates, preferably vessels that have just been modernized or underwent a (mid)life extension. Such vessels would allow the Argentine Navy to operate relatively modern warships with good weaponry and sensors, which will also remain relevant for the next two decades. Given the high age of the remaining Argentine surface fleet, these two multipurpose vessels will likely become the most advanced and relevant surface warships within the Argentine Navy in the foreseeable future.

Three possible contenders identified

On July 22, the Secretary of International Affairs for the Argentine Ministry of Defence Juan Battaleme reported on twitter that the Argentine Navy is in negotiations with the Danish Navy to acquire two  frigates of the Iver Huitfeldt-class. These vessels are relatively modern and heavily armed with vertical launch cells, anti-ships missiles and primarily designed for air defence though they can perform multiple missions.

Recently, the Dannish Chief of Defence recommended abandoning the mid-life upgrade of the Iver Huitfeldt-class based on the fact of the cost of the upgrade while the Danish Navy is already looking to acquire new air defence frigates. The decision to cancel the upgrade was in part also due to the fact that the lead vessel, the HDMS Iver Huitfeldt, experienced several technical issues during its deployment in the Red Sea in 2024 as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian. These technical issues undermined the general combat performance of the vessel while it was under air attack by UAVs launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen. At a point in the battle, the air defence systems had to be rebooted, causing the frigate to be out of action for 30 minutes. The incident forced the vessel to retire from Operation Prosperity Guardian two weeks earlier than anticipated. The Dannish Chief of Defence however did not recommend that the vessels of the Iver Huitfeldt-class to be scrapped or sold but to be downgraded in weaponry and repurpose as patrol vessels to replace the smaller Diana-class patrol vessels.

A Maestrale-class frigate. Italian MoD picture.

A second possible candidate are the Italian frigates of the Maestrale-class, according to statements made by Juan Battaleme. This choice was made during a twitter discussion regarding the probable purchase of an amphibious transport vessel during which Juan Battaleme stated that the Argentine Navy could probably acquire vessels from the Maestrale-class as a possible alternative. It was unclear if negotiations with the Danish government for the purchase of the Iver Huitfeldt-class fell through or that Argentina was just working out different alternatives.

Most likely, Argentina would study the purchase of the “Grecale” and “Libeccio“. These vessels were decommissioned in 2024 and could return back to service following a refit. These vessels do have a service life of over four decades and their weapon systems are in the same category as the ones the Argentine Navy currently operates.

In a recent interview, the Chief of the Argentine Navy, Admiral Carlos Allievi, stated that the country is also studying to acquire vessels from the Norway, most notably the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class. These vessels offer similar capabilities as the Iver Huitfeldt-class but are less well armed with only two 8-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch Systems and just eight anti-ship missiles though this class is equipped with the Naval Strike Missile compared to the Harpoon anti-ship missiles found on the Iver Huitfeldt-class.

Pictured is Fridtjof Nansen ship HNoMS Otto Sverdrup. Royal Norwegian Navy picture.

The Fridtjof Nansen-class is being scheduled to undergo modernization and maintain their combat capabilities. However, just as is the case with the Danish Navy, the Norwegian Navy is planning to replace the  Fridtjof Nansen-class within the decade by the new British Type 26 frigates with deliveries beginning in 2030. It is unclear if the Fridtjof Nansen class will be reassigned a new role within the Norwegian Navy or that it will become available for sales. Either way, it seems that the purchase of Type 26 frigates by Norway has convinced Argentina to also start negotiating with Norway to possibly acquire two frigates of the Fridtjof Nansen-class.

Conclusion

It appears the Argentine Navy is set on acquiring two multipurpose frigates in order to regain lost naval capabilities and replace the decommissioned warships ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Several options have become available to the Argentine Navy though probable budgetary constraints means that the navy is looking for second-hand warships.

It appears that the Argentine Navy is mainly looking at the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class as the preferred option. These vessels are relatively new, with the first vessel being commissioned in 2012. As such, these vessels could remain relevant surface combatants well into the 2040s and both vessels could serve as the principle Argentine warships in the near future if a deal can be made. Denmark is looking to replace the Iver Huitfeldt-class in the next decade by more capable frigates though it has so far not made any statements if it is willing to sell the Iver Huitfeldt-class. Downgrading the Iver Huitfeldt-class to patrol vessels appears the most preferred option for the Danish Navy though it is unclear if Denmark is willing to reconsider and modernize the Iver Huitfeldt-class if Argentine is willing to pay for the necessary upgrades.

At the same level there is the possibility of acquiring the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class. Just as Denmark, Norway is planning to replace these vessels with more capable warships. With the purchase of the British Type 26 frigate, Norway is already further down the process of replacing its frigates. Just as with Denmark, it is unclear if the Norwegian Navy is willing to sell frigates of the Fridtjof Nansen-class to Argentina or have these frigates repurposed for a different role in the Norwegian Navy. Should a purchase be possible, the delivery time of the Fridtjof Nansen-class could potentially be faster than the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class.

The possibility of the Italian Maestrale-class appears to be more of a last resort. The two available vessels, the “Grecale” and “Libeccio” have already served for four decades meaning that after a refit period, the additional service life will be minimal and the combat capabilities that both vessels provide does not appear to be a significant increase compared to what the Argentine Navy already has available with the remaining three vessels of the MEKO 360/ Almirante Brown-class.

Tags

• Argentine Navy, Fridtjof Nansen, Iver Huitfeldt-class

Frederik Van Lokeren

Frederik Van Lokeren is a former Navy Lieutenant, having served for seven years in the Belgian Navy where he was trained in logistics and maritime intelligence. Afterwards he’s been active as a freelance maritime analyst, regularly writing about naval developments on a strategic and operational level. His main area of expertise is the Russian Navy of which he keeps track on his personal blog Russian Navy – News and Analysis though he also keeps track of European navies and maritime developments in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Argentine Navy Eyes European Replacement Frigates

• Published on 15/09/2025
• By Frederik Van Lokeren
• In News

Iver Huitfeldt-class HDMS Peter Willemoes (F362) (Royal Danish Navy picture)

Share

The Argentine Navy recently announced that it is attempting to acquire two multipurpose frigates in order to replace the aging and inactive frigates ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Several possible candidates have already been identified such as the Italian Maestrale-class, the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class and the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class.

The two frigates will allow the Argentine Navy to regain previously lost capabilities. The purchase is one of three priorities set forth by the Argentine Navy with the first priority aiming to require new submarines, the second priority the purchase of two multipurpose frigates and the third priority the modernization of the remaining MEK0 360 destroyers. The latter class is also known as the Almirante Brown-class in the Argentine Navy. This modernization is being offered by the Turkish electronics company ASELSAN based on the work that has been done on the Turkish vessels of the MEKO-200 class.

Argentina seeks to replace lost capabilities

The Argentine Navy is urgently looking for two multipurpose frigates that need to replace the inactive frigates ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Both vessels have been inactive for over a decade due to mechanical issues and the inability of getting them repaired. As of 2024, both vessels were officially retired from active service, after having a career of more than four decades with the Argentine Navy.

The ARA Hercules is a Type 42 class destroyer, also known as the Sheffield-class, which joined the Argentine Navy in 1976. Around 2000, the vessel was converted from a destroyer into a multipurpose transport ship. During the conversion, her anti-aircraft and anti-ship missile systems were reportedly removed in order to enlarge the flight deck, hangar and provide for the accommodation for embarking 238 marines. By 2020, the vessel was reported to be non-operational. The destroyer reportedly has been out of service for over a decade due to the loss of its turbines.

The ARA Héroina is a MEKO 360 destroyer, also known as the Almirante Brown-class in the Argentine Navy. This vessel had a breakdown in what is reported a vital component, the slow wheel. This component was removed in 2010 and send to England for reconditioning. However, the reconditioning allegedly faces a British veto, preventing Argentina from acquiring the component. The Argentine Navy still operates three more MEKO 360-class destroyers. Though these vessels are also aging, there are plans to modernize these vessels and extend their service life.

The Argentine Navy didn’t specify if it wants new or second-hand frigates to replace the ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Though the government of Javier Milei succeeded in reducing inflation and made headway in balancing the Argentine economy, the finances available to the Argentine Navy means that acquiring newly build vessels are a “complex endeavour”.

It is probable that budgetary restraints are pushing the Argentine Navy in looking for second-hand frigates, preferably vessels that have just been modernized or underwent a (mid)life extension. Such vessels would allow the Argentine Navy to operate relatively modern warships with good weaponry and sensors, which will also remain relevant for the next two decades. Given the high age of the remaining Argentine surface fleet, these two multipurpose vessels will likely become the most advanced and relevant surface warships within the Argentine Navy in the foreseeable future.

Three possible contenders identified

On July 22, the Secretary of International Affairs for the Argentine Ministry of Defence Juan Battaleme reported on twitter that the Argentine Navy is in negotiations with the Danish Navy to acquire two  frigates of the Iver Huitfeldt-class. These vessels are relatively modern and heavily armed with vertical launch cells, anti-ships missiles and primarily designed for air defence though they can perform multiple missions.

Recently, the Dannish Chief of Defence recommended abandoning the mid-life upgrade of the Iver Huitfeldt-class based on the fact of the cost of the upgrade while the Danish Navy is already looking to acquire new air defence frigates. The decision to cancel the upgrade was in part also due to the fact that the lead vessel, the HDMS Iver Huitfeldt, experienced several technical issues during its deployment in the Red Sea in 2024 as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian. These technical issues undermined the general combat performance of the vessel while it was under air attack by UAVs launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen. At a point in the battle, the air defence systems had to be rebooted, causing the frigate to be out of action for 30 minutes. The incident forced the vessel to retire from Operation Prosperity Guardian two weeks earlier than anticipated. The Dannish Chief of Defence however did not recommend that the vessels of the Iver Huitfeldt-class to be scrapped or sold but to be downgraded in weaponry and repurpose as patrol vessels to replace the smaller Diana-class patrol vessels.

A Maestrale-class frigate. Italian MoD picture.

A second possible candidate are the Italian frigates of the Maestrale-class, according to statements made by Juan Battaleme. This choice was made during a twitter discussion regarding the probable purchase of an amphibious transport vessel during which Juan Battaleme stated that the Argentine Navy could probably acquire vessels from the Maestrale-class as a possible alternative. It was unclear if negotiations with the Danish government for the purchase of the Iver Huitfeldt-class fell through or that Argentina was just working out different alternatives.

Most likely, Argentina would study the purchase of the “Grecale” and “Libeccio“. These vessels were decommissioned in 2024 and could return back to service following a refit. These vessels do have a service life of over four decades and their weapon systems are in the same category as the ones the Argentine Navy currently operates.

In a recent interview, the Chief of the Argentine Navy, Admiral Carlos Allievi, stated that the country is also studying to acquire vessels from the Norway, most notably the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class. These vessels offer similar capabilities as the Iver Huitfeldt-class but are less well armed with only two 8-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch Systems and just eight anti-ship missiles though this class is equipped with the Naval Strike Missile compared to the Harpoon anti-ship missiles found on the Iver Huitfeldt-class.

Pictured is Fridtjof Nansen ship HNoMS Otto Sverdrup. Royal Norwegian Navy picture.

The Fridtjof Nansen-class is being scheduled to undergo modernization and maintain their combat capabilities. However, just as is the case with the Danish Navy, the Norwegian Navy is planning to replace the  Fridtjof Nansen-class within the decade by the new British Type 26 frigates with deliveries beginning in 2030. It is unclear if the Fridtjof Nansen class will be reassigned a new role within the Norwegian Navy or that it will become available for sales. Either way, it seems that the purchase of Type 26 frigates by Norway has convinced Argentina to also start negotiating with Norway to possibly acquire two frigates of the Fridtjof Nansen-class.

Conclusion

It appears the Argentine Navy is set on acquiring two multipurpose frigates in order to regain lost naval capabilities and replace the decommissioned warships ARA Hercules and ARA Héroina. Several options have become available to the Argentine Navy though probable budgetary constraints means that the navy is looking for second-hand warships.

It appears that the Argentine Navy is mainly looking at the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class as the preferred option. These vessels are relatively new, with the first vessel being commissioned in 2012. As such, these vessels could remain relevant surface combatants well into the 2040s and both vessels could serve as the principle Argentine warships in the near future if a deal can be made. Denmark is looking to replace the Iver Huitfeldt-class in the next decade by more capable frigates though it has so far not made any statements if it is willing to sell the Iver Huitfeldt-class. Downgrading the Iver Huitfeldt-class to patrol vessels appears the most preferred option for the Danish Navy though it is unclear if Denmark is willing to reconsider and modernize the Iver Huitfeldt-class if Argentine is willing to pay for the necessary upgrades.

At the same level there is the possibility of acquiring the Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class. Just as Denmark, Norway is planning to replace these vessels with more capable warships. With the purchase of the British Type 26 frigate, Norway is already further down the process of replacing its frigates. Just as with Denmark, it is unclear if the Norwegian Navy is willing to sell frigates of the Fridtjof Nansen-class to Argentina or have these frigates repurposed for a different role in the Norwegian Navy. Should a purchase be possible, the delivery time of the Fridtjof Nansen-class could potentially be faster than the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class.

The possibility of the Italian Maestrale-class appears to be more of a last resort. The two available vessels, the “Grecale” and “Libeccio” have already served for four decades meaning that after a refit period, the additional service life will be minimal and the combat capabilities that both vessels provide does not appear to be a significant increase compared to what the Argentine Navy already has available with the remaining three vessels of the MEKO 360/ Almirante Brown-class.

Tags

• Argentine Navy, Fridtjof Nansen, Iver Huitfeldt-class

Frederik Van Lokeren

Frederik Van Lokeren is a former Navy Lieutenant, having served for seven years in the Belgian Navy where he was trained in logistics and maritime intelligence. Afterwards he’s been active as a freelance maritime analyst, regularly writing about naval developments on a strategic and operational level. His main area of expertise is the Russian Navy of which he keeps track on his personal blog Russian Navy – News and Analysis though he also keeps track of European navies and maritime developments in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Maestrale-class frigate - Wikipedia

[백선호]

영국에서는 다 사라진 42형 구축함이 수송함으로 살아있었던 셈이네요... ㄷㄷㄷ

[위종민]

1982년 이후로는 부품이나 기술지원도 못 받았을 텐데 2000년까지는 대공, 대함미사일을 유지한 게 더 신기하긴 합니다 ㅎㅎ 동급함 산티시마 트리니다드는 2004년 퇴역했네요. ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_42_destroyer#Fate_of_ships )