Naval innovation 100% Colombian: this is Cotecmar, the company that builds the National Navy’s ships

In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the National Navy and the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Lake Maracaibo, on July 24, Cotecmar completed the assembly of the first four blocks of the 100% Colombian Ocean Patrol Vessel (OPV 93).

This news represents an innovation in design and engineering for the country, as it places Colombia at the forefront of the development of patrol and military aid vessels in Latin America.

You may be interested in: Unions announce teachers’ strike over upcoming FOMAG contract decision

Vessels such as these were developed by Cotecmar, a Colombian state-owned company, to meet the needs of the Colombian Navy, incorporating greater autonomy, a greater number of crew members and the operational requirements of this institution.

The OPV 93 is characterized by its multidisciplinary nature. They are used for maritime interdiction operations, maritime traffic control and protection, search and rescue, humanitarian aid, environmental control and protection, exercising sovereignty and strategic deterrence.

Scientific and technological development in shipbuilding

Cotecmar’s commitment to scientific and technological development has been one of the fundamental pillars of its success. The company has established strategic alliances with prestigious universities and research centers, which allows for the exchange of knowledge, as well as joint participation in innovation projects with universities.

These processes have generated an environment conducive to the formation of highly qualified local talent and to the creation of solutions tailored to the needs of the naval and maritime industry.

In addition, Cotecmar has made significant investments in infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment, which has allowed it to develop high quality products and services.

Its shipyards, for example, have state-of-the-art technology and international certifications that ensure the efficiency and sustainability of its operations.

Cotecmar’s innovation also impacts the country’s economic and social development.

Innovation and investment in science and technology is important for the business sector and productivity. This makes it possible to offer products that better meet market needs, attract and employ skilled labor, and develop more efficient internal processes.

Cotecmar’s contribution to Colombia’s economic and social development is undeniable. The company has generated direct and indirect employment, providing job opportunities for 15,101 people, including 1,028 direct employees, 2,946 contractors, and 11,127 indirect employees, many of them highly trained in science and technology.

In addition, it has boosted the growth of local companies that provide inputs and services related to its activity, strengthening the value chain of the naval and maritime industry.

You may read: What Colombia can learn from Galapagos and its strategy for financing with Blue Bonds

From military and coast guard vessels to social assistance ships

Cotecmar -acronym for Corporación de Ciencia y Tecnología para el Desarrollo de la Industria Naval, Marítima y Fluvial- is a Colombian state-owned company that has transcended borders thanks to its outstanding trajectory in scientific and technological development and its exporting vocation in the region.

Its creation dates back to the year 2000, when the alliance between the National Army, the National University, the Universidad del Norte and the Universidad Tecnológica de Bolívar was established.

Since then, the company has been a fundamental piece for the advancement and strengthening of the naval industry in Colombia.

The state-owned company has three product lines. First, there is the manufacture of military and coast guard vessels, among which the OPV (Offshore Patrol Vessel) and the OPV 93 of entirely Colombian design stand out.

Secondly, the company manufactures work vessels such as marine scientific research vessels, multi-load river barges and logistic support and coastal trade vessels, among others.

The third production line is responsible for the development of social assistance and dual-use vessels, including floating medical classrooms and services, LATAMs (ambulance boats) and river firefighting vessels, among others.

Cotecmar also has two repair and maintenance facilities in the city of Cartagena, where mechanical work, paint maintenance, electrical appliance repair and ship habitability are carried out.

An export benchmark in the region

Cotecmar’s export focus has been a determining factor in its growth and recognition in the region. The company has constantly sought to expand its presence in international markets, demonstrating the competitiveness of its products and services.

Thanks to its commitment to quality, it has gained the trust of customers in different countries in Latin America and other parts of the world.

Outstanding clients include the Brazilian Navy, the Guatemalan Navy, the Honduran Naval Force, and the Royal Netherlands Navy.

This Colombian state-owned company has also participated in commercial events where it has shown its capabilities and strengths to consolidate an expansion process with new clients and commercial partners.

Its focus on research and development has enabled it to offer innovative and reliable solutions, which constitute its competitive advantage in the global market.

Naval innovation with environmental sustainability

Cotecmar’s commitment to environmental sustainability also deserves recognition. The company has implemented environmentally friendly practices and technologies by reducing its carbon footprint and promoting the preservation of marine and river ecosystems.

For this reason, Cotecmar represents an outstanding example of the scientific and technological potential that Colombia has to offer the world.

Its track record, export focus and commitment to innovation are fundamental pillars that position it as a benchmark in the marine and maritime industry in Latin America.

Keep reading: Commercial war between the United States and China: could these powers break off their commercial relations?