OPV 87 (Bouchard Class) Offshore Patrol Vessel

Overview

French-designed offshore patrol vessels providing Argentine Coast Guard with capability for maritime patrol, search and rescue, fisheries enforcement, and exclusive economic zone surveillance. Four vessels: Mantilla, Derbes, Storni, and Toll (commissioned 2011-2014 for Coast Guard, 2021 for Navy). Based on French Gowind corvette design adapted for patrol missions. Displacement of 1,750 tonnes with length of 87 metres. Features 40mm gun, 12.7mm remote weapon stations, helicopter platform for medium helicopters, boarding craft, accommodations for boarding teams and inspectors, comprehensive navigation and surveillance radars, and high endurance. Propulsion via diesel providing 20+ knot speed and range exceeding 8,000 nautical miles. Crew of 40 with space for 20 additional personnel. The OPV 87 conducts patrol missions across Argentine maritime zones monitoring fishing vessels (illegal fishing significant problem), search and rescue, drug interdiction, and maritime domain awareness. Transfer of one vessel from Coast Guard to Navy (2021) reflects operational needs. Represents practical patrol capability appropriate for peacetime maritime security missions without requiring expensive warships. Argentine procurement included technology transfer with construction at Argentine shipyards developing domestic capabilities. Future potential additional vessels or similar designs for continued maritime patrol needs.

Technical Specifications

Operators

• Argentina

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