Uruguay Faces Dilemma Over Unfinished Patrol Vessels; Opposition Warns of 'Scrap Metal' Risk

El País reports on the ongoing complexities surrounding the Cardama case, where Uruguay's government faces the challenge of determining the future of two partially constructed patrol vessels. The contract with the Spanish shipyard was rescinded earlier this year due to irregularities in the guarantees provided, leaving the state-owned steel structures in limbo.

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It is difficult to give an answer. If you are going for the construction of another OPV, possibly, the design will not be the same as what Cardama started to build. Can it be removed from there? Everything can be removed. They have moved historical monuments in Egypt to build a dam, so this can be removed by a barge, it can be removed in any way, the problem is where it is sent.

While a special commission in the General Assembly continues its investigation into the government's handling of the contract, the current administration is also tasked with commissioning two new OPVs. This dual focus highlights the urgency of resolving the Cardama situation. The owner of the shipyard, Mario Cardama, has formally reminded the Uruguayan government that the unfinished vessels are now state property and has urged swift action to mitigate potential damages.

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Generally, in any place one designates to put this, if it is not going to be used, one will have to pay rent, a floor.

The opposition has voiced strong concerns, warning that the delay in deciding the fate of the partially built vessels could lead to them becoming worthless scrap. The question of how to move or repurpose the steel structures is technically challenging, as noted by former Navy Commander Jorge Wilson. He explained that moving such large structures is possible, but the cost and logistics, especially if they are not to be used for their original purpose, are significant considerations.

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The state of the steel skeleton - which represents more or less 50% of the process of the first unit - from the moment the government announced the termination of the contract for various irregularities in the composition of the guarantees - which happened on February 13 - is the property of the Uruguayan State, and it must be transferred.

This situation underscores a critical juncture for Uruguay's naval procurement. The government must not only address the legal and financial repercussions of the Cardama contract but also find a practical and cost-effective solution for the existing construction. The ongoing investigation and the opposition's vigilance reflect the public's demand for transparency and responsible management of state resources in this high-stakes matter.

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The Spanish shipyard owner, Mario Cardama, reminded the government of this situation in a letter sent this summer, after the termination, and even questioned the Executive for not being interested until that moment in 'what has been built.'