Santa María-class frigate

The Santa Maria class of frigates are the Spanish Navy's designation for six locally-built warships based on the United States Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates.

Built in two batches, the second batch units (F-85&86) received some improvements, such as an improved combat-data system, updated SPS-49 and SQR-19 sets, and a new Meroka mount. The Mk92 Mod 6 CORT replaced the previous Mod 4, providing better capabilities against sea skimming missiles. The electronic warfare suite was also updated.

Spanish ships have a slightly bigger beam and were built with a greater weight reserve for future improvements. Other changes, from the basic model, include Meroka replacing Phanlanx and a RAN-12L air search radar to provide low horizon coverage against sea skimmers cueing the Meroka CIWS mount. The Nettunel EW suite (based on the Italian Nettuno built in Spain) replaced the SLQ-32 system fitted aboard US ships.

The class is currently receiving a mid-life update (MLU), including a new EW suite, improved combat-data system, an upgrade of the Mk92 FCS, new electrical generators, the removal of the SQR-19 TACTASS towed array and habitability improvements. Four ships have already been modernized.

Units of class

 * SPS Santa María (F81)
 * SPS Victoria (F82)
 * SPS Numancia (F83)
 * SPS Reina Sofía (F84)
 * SPS Navarra (F85)
 * SPS Canarias (F86)

All are homeported in Rota, Spain.