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A sweeping modernization of Peru’s shipbuilding industry, spearheaded by SIMA, aims to not only bolster the nation’s naval capabilities but also reignite a critical national productive chain.
Peru is embarking on an ambitious program to revitalize its naval industry, underscored by a recent $2.8 billion (approximately S/ 2,800 million) investment in key projects slated for completion through 2026 and beyond. The initiative, led by SIMA (Servicio Industrial de la Marina), focuses on both naval construction and repair, incorporating advanced technologies and efficient planning systems. This strategic push is expected to generate significant economic benefits through the contracting of Peruvian goods, services, and labor.
Rebuilding a National Productive Chain
According to a senior official, the overarching goal extends beyond simply building ships for the Peruvian Navy. “The aim is not only to build ships for the Peruvian Navy but to reactivate an entire national productive chain that had lost strength in past decades.” This revitalization effort is already showing positive results, with the company reporting sustained growth in project execution and closer collaboration with international partners like Hyundai Heavy Industries. Between 30% and 35% of the $2.8 billion investment will remain within Peru, directly supporting local metalworking companies, equipment suppliers, and skilled technicians.
Projects Set to Launch in 2026
Several key projects are poised for completion in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Peru’s naval modernization. Most immediately, two logistical auxiliary ships are currently 50% complete and scheduled for delivery by the end of next year. The shipbuilding process involves a distinct two-stage approach: hull completion and launching, followed by final finishing. Officials anticipate the launch of these vessels in May or June of the coming year.
Beyond these auxiliary ships, the modernization of a second submarine for the Navy is also nearing completion. SIMA is also actively serving the private sector, demonstrating the broader impact of the industry’s growth. A river tourist boat is currently under construction in Iquitos (Loreto) for a private company, with delivery expected in the second half of 2026.
Long-Term Investments and Technological Advancement
While several projects are slated for near-term completion, SIMA is also undertaking more complex, long-term initiatives. Construction has begun on a multirole frigate, a warship equipped with missile systems, advanced radars, and cutting-edge technology – a capability Peru hasn’t possessed for 40 years. This project, currently 5% to 6% complete and focused on initial metal module cutting, is expected to be delivered by the end of 2029.
An ocean patrol vessel is also under construction, with an estimated completion timeframe of 2.5 to 3 years. Furthermore, work is scheduled to begin on a new Fisheries Scientific Research vessel for the Peruvian Sea Institute (Imarpe). This vessel will significantly enhance Peru’s capacity for oceanic research and sustainable fisheries management, enabling comprehensive biological studies to inform fishing regulations.
Building a Regional Maritime Hub
Looking beyond defense and fishing, SIMA envisions a strategic role for the naval industry in developing Peru as a commercial port hub, specifically focusing on the Callao-Chancay axis. A critical component of this vision is addressing the limitations of the existing infrastructure. The current dry dock in Callao, dating back to 1938, is inadequate for servicing modern Neo Panamax vessels, which exceed the dock’s capacity in both length and width. “Those ships can no longer enter our dry dock,” a SIMA representative explained. “For that, with a strategic vision of consolidating Callao as a port hub, this construction is needed.”
Future strategies also include the construction of merchant vessels and the renewal of the aging fishing fleet, which has an average age of over 40 years. Finally, officials see significant potential for exporting vessels and specialized repair services, particularly in the areas of maritime and river patrol vessels and advanced maintenance.
