Argentina's Gowind-derived ships are described as offshore patrol vessels of nearly 1,500 tons fully loaded. Their stated armament is a 30 mm gun and a .50-calibre machine gun. More heavily armed variants are possible, but these vessels are assigned maritime-security tasks. Their naval identity communicates state authority even when the weapons fit is modest. Unauthorised fishing fleets provide an example of a problem suited to that level of presence. The general argument about warship status supports the mission assessment without setting out a particular legal provision.
Notable Point · 1:00:53-1:02:40
Argentina's lightly armed naval patrol vessels
A nearly 1,500-ton OPV can meet maritime-security needs through suitable armament, presence, and recognisable state authority.