Meko 140-class
Argentine frigate/corvette, 1,790 tons displacement, propelled by two diesel engines. Key figures: displacement 1,790 tons, length 91 m, top speed 27 knots, crew 100, built 6. No longer in service; operated by 1 navy over its career.
| Subtype | Frigate / corvette |
| Displacement | 1790 tons |
| Crew | 100 members |
| Width | 11.1 m (36.4 ft) |
| Length | 91.2 m (299.2 ft) |
| Propulsion | 2 Diesel engines 15,210 kW (20,400 shp) 2 shafts/propellers |
| Shaft power | 20,400 hp |
| Units | Espora class |
| Range | 4,000 nm at 18 knots |
| Maximum speed | 27 knots |
- 4 × Exocet anti-ship missiles
- 1 × 76 mm dual-purpose gun
- 4 × 40 mm anti-aircraft guns
- 2 × .50 cal machine guns
- 6 × 324 mm torpedo tubes
- 1 helicopter
Description
The MEKO 140 is a naval vessel design produced by the German shipyard Blohm + Voss as part of the MEKO family of ships. Developed in the late 1970s, the design is an evolution of the Portuguese Navy's João Coutinho-class corvettes. The MEKO concept utilizes modularity in armament, electronics, and other equipment to facilitate maintenance and allow for the installation of different weapon systems according to requirements.
The Argentine Navy selected the MEKO 140 A16 variant to operate in conjunction with its MEKO 360 destroyers. Six vessels were constructed in Argentina by the Río Santiago Shipyards (AFNE). While the designers categorized the vessels as frigates, the Argentine Navy designates the ships as the Espora class and classifies them as corvettes.
The class entered service in 1985. All six completed vessels remain in active commission. They are deployed as part of the Argentine Navy’s High Seas Fleet (Flota de Mar).
Frequently Asked Questions
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- AUG 82026 Updated Thrust updated
- APR 72026 Updated Description updated in a site-wide editorial pass
- JAN 182026 Updated Based aircraft added; type, units and 4 more fields updated