South Korea-Built Warship To Join Ecuadorian Navy In Fight Against Drug Trafficking

Ecuador is set to strengthen its maritime security capabilities with the induction of its first multipurpose warship, BAE Jambelí, as part of its ongoing fight against drug trafficking.

According to Ecuador’s Ministry of National Defense, the vessel has departed South Korea and is currently in San Diego, United States, where it will undergo final navigation inspections before joining the Ecuadorian Navy in the coming days.

The BAE Jambelí is a modernised patrol vessel originally built for the Korea Coast Guard. Commissioned in 1994 as a 3,000-ton-class ship known as Vessel 3001.

It has been upgraded ahead of its transfer through a comprehensive overhaul carried out by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The upgrade includes a modern navigation system and communication equipment tailored for Ecuadorian naval operations.

The vessel has been equipped with three high-speed interceptor boats designed to pursue and stop drug-smuggling vessels.

It also features enhanced facilities to support medium-sized helicopter operations, expanding its reach in maritime surveillance and interdiction missions.

With a length of 105 metres and a beam of 15 metres, the warship can accommodate more than 60 naval personnel and remain at sea for up to 40 days without resupply.

Its operational scope includes maritime surveillance, control of sea routes, counter-narcotics missions, transport of troops and equipment, search and rescue operations, and humanitarian assistance.

In a statement shared on social media, the Ministry of National Defense said the addition of the BAE Jambelí sends a direct message to organised crime groups and shows that the country will continue its efforts to protect its people and territory.

Around 12 drug cartels are involved in violent clashes, especially in areas near the Colombian border.

The country’s geographic position between Colombia and Peru, two of the world’s largest cocaine producers, along with multiple ports and a dollar-based economy, has made Ecuador a major transit hub for narcotics trafficking.

President Daniel Noboa declared a state of internal armed conflict in 2024, taking a tougher stance after authorities assessed that criminal groups had grown beyond regular law enforcement control.

Despite these measures, Ecuador recorded 8,847 murders by the end of last year, the highest number on record. Officials say many of these killings are linked to conflicts between organised crime groups involved in drug trade networks.

Reference: Ministerio de Defensa Nacional del Ecuador