Navantia conducts first dive of 2nd S80 submarine ‘Narciso Monturiol’

The Spanish Navy's second S80-class submarine, the S-82 'Narciso Monturiol', has achieved a significant milestone in its development. Navantia, the Spanish state-owned shipbuilder, conducted the vessel's first static dive on July 28, 2026, near the La Algameca Naval Base in Cartagena . This test marks a crucial step in the submarine's sea trials, verifying its hull integrity and stability before progressing to more advanced submerged navigation exercises . The successful dive underscores the S80 program's steady progress and brings Spain closer to fielding a fleet of four advanced conventional submarines.

Details of the Static Dive Test

The first static dive of the S-82 'Narciso Monturiol' was conducted by a combined team of Navantia personnel and the trials crew . The primary objectives of the test were to evaluate the submarine's hull behavior, verify the correct flooding and operation of the ballast tanks, and confirm the vessel's static stability while submerged . These are fundamental checks required before the submarine can proceed to the next phase of its trials: submerged navigation tests . The successful completion of this milestone indicates that the S-82's basic underwater handling and structural integrity meet the required safety and performance standards.

Significance for the S80 Program

The S-82's progress is a critical part of the broader S80 program, which aims to provide the Spanish Navy with four state-of-the-art conventional submarines . Navantia Chairman Ricardo Domínguez emphasized the program's importance, stating, "The S80 programme is progressing in line with the agreed schedule, and the second submarine in the series will be delivered soon" . He further highlighted that the program is "already making a significant contribution to the strategic autonomy of Spain's submarine force and to the technological capabilities of our industrial ecosystem" . The S-80 submarines are designed to enhance Spain's naval capabilities while strengthening national technological independence in submarine development .

Technological Features of the S80 Class

The S80 class represents a significant technological leap for the Spanish Navy. The submarines are approximately 80.8 meters long, 7.3 meters in diameter, and have a submerged displacement of about 3,000 tons . Key features include an advanced combat and platform control system developed by Navantia Sistemas . However, the most innovative aspect is the air-independent propulsion (AIP) system, known as BEST (Bio-Ethanol Stealth Technology) . This third-generation system uses a bioethanol reformer to produce hydrogen, which then reacts with oxygen in a fuel cell to generate electricity. This allows the submarine to remain submerged for up to three weeks, significantly enhancing its stealth and operational endurance . The S80 is also capable of launching tactical land-attack missiles and is highly automated, requiring a reduced crew of around 32 sailors .

Progress on Other S80 Submarines

While the S-82 achieves its milestones, work continues on the other submarines in the series. The lead boat, S-81 'Isaac Peral', was officially commissioned into the Spanish Navy in November 2023 after completing extensive sea trials . Navantia launched the S-82 itself in November 2025, using a floating dock . Recent progress on the third submarine, S-83 'Cosme García', includes the installation of its diesel generator sets in July 2026 . These three generator sets form a key part of the propulsion system, working alongside the main electric motor and the AIP system . The fourth and final submarine in the class, S-84 'Mateo García de los Reyes', is currently under construction . All four submarines are being built at Navantia's shipyard in Cartagena . The program represents a total estimated investment of 4 billion euros between 2018 and 2032 and supports over 6,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs, involving around 100 collaborating companies .