Spanish Navy Relocates Submarine Pusher to Ferrol for S-81 Submarine Support
Teh Spanish Navy is transferring the submarine pusher Y 178 from the Arsenal de Cartagena to the Arsenal de Ferrol to support operations involving the new S-81 “isaac Peral” submarine and future vessels in its class. The move follows the recent addition of three new submarine pushers to the Cartagena arsenal, bringing the total there to six.
Strategic Redeployment for S-81 ’Isaac Peral’ Operations
The decision to relocate the Y 178 was made by the Admiral Chief of Staff of the Navy (AJEMA),based on a report from ALACART. The pusher’s primary function will be to assist in maneuvering the S-81 “Isaac Peral,” which recently made its first port call at the Ferrol arsenal, and othre submarines of the S-80 class.
Official Confirmation in Defense Bulletin
The relocation order was officially published in the Boletín Oficial de defensa (Official defense Bulletin), No. 30, dated February 13, 2025.



What strategic advantages does relocating the submarine pusher Y 178 to Ferrol offer for the S-81 “isaac Peral” and future S-80 class submarines?
spanish Navy Relocates Submarine Pusher to Ferrol for S-81 Submarine Support
Teh Spanish Navy is transferring the submarine pusher Y 178 from the Arsenal de Cartagena to the Arsenal de Ferrol to support operations involving the new S-81 “isaac Peral” submarine and future vessels in its class. The move follows the recent addition of three new submarine pushers to the Cartagena arsenal, bringing the total there to six.
Strategic Redeployment for S-81 ’Isaac Peral’ Operations
The decision to relocate the Y 178 was made by the Admiral Chief of Staff of the Navy (AJEMA),based on a report from ALACART.The pusher’s primary function will be to assist in maneuvering the S-81 “Isaac Peral,” which recently made its first port call at the Ferrol arsenal, and othre submarines of the S-80 class.
Official Confirmation in Defense Bulletin
The relocation order was officially published in the Boletín Oficial de defensa (Official defense Bulletin),No. 30, dated February 13, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About the submarine Pusher Relocation
- why is the Spanish Navy moving a submarine pusher?
- The Spanish Navy is relocating the Y 178 submarine pusher from Cartagena to Ferrol to directly support the new S-81 “Isaac Peral” submarine and future submarines of the S-80 class. This ensures efficient maneuvering and operations in Ferrol, where the S-81 is based.
- What is a submarine pusher?
- A submarine pusher is a specialized vessel designed to assist submarines in maneuvering,especially in confined spaces like harbors and docks. They provide crucial support for docking, undocking, and general movement of submarines.
- Where are the Arsenal de Cartagena and Arsenal de Ferrol located?
- The Arsenal de Cartagena is located in Cartagena, a historic port city on the Mediterranean coast of spain. The Arsenal de Ferrol is located in Ferrol, a city on the Atlantic coast in northwestern Spain.
- Why was the move necessary if Cartagena already had pushers?
- While Cartagena has a fleet of pushers, the move is strategic. Ferrol is the home port for the S-81 “Isaac Peral,” and having a dedicated pusher there streamlines operations and provides immediate support for this new class of submarines.
- What is the S-81 “Isaac Peral” submarine?
- The S-81 “Isaac Peral” is the first of a new class of advanced,conventionally-powered submarines being built for the Spanish Navy. It represents a meaningful upgrade in capabilities and technology.
- Who authorized this relocation?
- The relocation order was made by the Admiral Chief of Staff of the Navy (AJEMA),based on a report from ALACART.
The relocation of the Y 178 underlines the spanish Navy’s commitment to effectively operate the S-81 “Isaac Peral” and maintain its maritime capabilities.