SALINA CRUZ, Mexico - The Mexican Navy's newest patrol vessel, the ARM Hidalgo (PO-166), is equipped with the BAE Systems Bofors Mk 3 57 mm cannon. The ARM Hidalgo is the first vessel in the Oaxacan-class to be equipped with the weapon as its main armament.
Previous versions of the Oaxaca-class use the Oto Melara 76 mm gun. While the Oto Melara cannon can fire larger projectiles, the BAE weapon has other advantages. It can fire up to four rounds per second, and can switch between ammunition between each shot. It can handle Smart 3P smart ammunition as well. The computerized firing system can pre-load up to 120 rounds and is controlled remotely by a single operator. The gun has an effective range of between 1,000 and 17,000 meters. According ot BAE, the gun is typically used for peacekeeping operations, law enforcement missions, and littorial duties, making it ideal for the Mexican Navy.
Oaxaca-class ships have a length of 86 meters, a beam of 11 meters, and a displacement of 680 tons. They have a range of 8,500 nautical miles and can remain at sea for 30 days. The ships can accommodate 120 crew members, a helicopter, and a speedboat for interception missions.
Without any major military threats, Mexico's Navy has focused on upholding the law of the sea within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Primary activities include combating drug traffickers, conducting search and rescue (SAR) missions, and supporting civilian populations during natural disasters.
