Manco Cápac-class cruiser

Manco Cápac-class Auxiliary Light Cruiser

Profile view of a Block II Manco Cápac-class auxiliary light cruiser following modernization.
Type	Auxiliary light cruiser
Displacement	13,892 metric tons (full load)
Length	125 metres
Beam	35 metres
Draft	6.5 metres
Propulsion	CODOG arrangement: 2x ESB-Marine 3000 diesel engines (6,000 hp total) 1x Javelin GT-25 gas turbine (25,000 hp boost)
Speed	24 knots (sustained) 28 knots (sprint, gas turbine)
Range	6,500 nautical miles at 15 knots
Endurance	45 days
Complement	Block I: 180 (15 officers, 165 enlisted) Block II: 165 (14 officers, 151 enlisted)
Sensors and processing systems	Block I: ESB-NAV-14 surface search radar ESB-AIR-27 air search radar Javelin SONAR-4 hull-mounted sonar Pontecorvo ICS-1 command system Block II upgrades: ESB-NAV-17 surface search radar ESB-AIR-32 air/surface search radar Javelin SONAR-6 hull-mounted sonar INCMS-Lite combat management system
Electronic warfare and decoys	Block I: JI-ECM-2 suite, 4x chaff/flare launchers Block II: JI-ECM-3 suite, 6x chaff/flare launchers, 2x torpedo decoy systems
Offensive armament	2x 76mm OTO Melara dual-purpose guns 8x anti-ship missile launchers 2x 30mm close-in weapon systems 4x 12.7mm machine guns
Defensive armament	1x 16-cell vertical launch system (SAMs) 2x triple torpedo tubes (324mm)
Armour	Steel hull with limited ballistic protection; vital spaces hardened
Flight deck	Aft helicopter deck (15m x 15m)
Aircraft capacity	1x Javelin H-2 Siren utility helicopter 2x reconnaissance UAVs (Block II)
Boats carried	2x rigid hull inflatable boats
Ships in commission	60 120 20 20
In service	1721 AN-present
Built	1719 AN-1733 AN
Builders	Pontecorvo Firm ESB Armada

The Manco Cápac-class (Alexandrian: Classe Manco Cápac; Martino: Clase Manco Cápac; Wechua: Manco Qhapaq rikch'aq) is a class of auxiliary light cruisers serving the Federal Navy of Nouvelle Alexandrie and several Raspur Pact partner nations. Named after the first King of Nouvelle Alexandrie, these vessels emerged from the troubled Emergency Shipbuilding Program of 1719 AN-1733 AN and have since become the most numerous warship class in Raspur Pact service, with 220 hulls currently operating across four nations.

Originally conceived as a rapid-production emergency response to the Confederacy of the Dispossessed threat, the class suffered from a notoriously troubled development marked by procurement scandals, bureaucratic infighting, and design compromises. The resulting vessel, while modest in individual capability compared to purpose-built fleet cruisers, proved to be exactly what multiple navies needed: a reliable, economical, and easily maintained platform suitable for the patrol, escort, and presence missions that constitute the bulk of peacetime naval operations. The class has since earned a reputation as a dependable workhorse, serving with distinction in the Wars of the Disinherited, the East Keltian Collapse, and the Fourth Euran War.

Design and development

Origins and the merchant heritage

The Manco Cápac-class traces its lineage not to a dedicated warship design but to commercial shipping. When the Emergency Shipbuilding Program was initiated in IV.1719 AN, time constraints and the need for mass production led designers to adapt existing commercial hull forms rather than develop a purpose-built naval platform. As construction began, observers noted the vessels shared obvious commonalities with the Andronikos-class auxiliary cruiser of the Constancian Navy, which had itself been built off the pattern set by the SS Andronikos, a Babkhan merchantman. Some naval analysts maintained that the ships would reveal themselves to be up-armed and up-armoured iterations of the Logistic Support Vessel, a design sixty-five years old at the time.

This commercial ancestry, initially viewed as an embarrassment by naval traditionalists, proved to be one of the class's greatest strengths. The merchant-derived hull form was well-understood by shipyard workers, simplifying construction. The proven design reduced technical risk during the rushed production program. Commercial-grade systems were readily available and did not require specialized naval procurement channels. The hull could be maintained at commercial ports without dedicated naval facilities, and merchant mariners who joined the navy found the ship's engineering spaces familiar.

The delays caused by bureaucratic conflicts between the National Ordnance and Procurement Board, the Joint Production Accelerator Cell, and the Naval Forces Office of Keltia Command ironically allowed designers to identify and correct numerous flaws in the initial proposal. What would have been little better than an armed merchantman evolved into a capable auxiliary warship.

Hull and structure

The hull design emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance over speed or stealth. The raised forecastle provides improved seakeeping in rough conditions common to patrol operations. The superstructure houses the bridge, combat information center, and primary sensor arrays in a conventional arrangement that minimizes training requirements for crews transitioning from other vessel types. The aft section includes a helicopter deck and a flexible mission bay that can be configured for various secondary roles.

The steel construction uses commercial-grade materials where possible, reducing costs and simplifying repairs at non-specialized facilities. Vital spaces including the magazine, engineering control room, and combat information center receive additional hardening. Ice-strengthened variants originally built for Normark and high-latitude operations incorporate reinforced bow sections and enhanced heating systems.

Propulsion and performance

The propulsion system uses a CODOG (Combined Diesel Or Gas) arrangement that balances economy with sprint capability. Two ESB-Marine 3000 diesel engines provide 6,000 horsepower for sustained cruising operations, while a single Javelin GT-25 gas turbine adds 25,000 horsepower for high-speed maneuvers when required. This arrangement allows the vessel to conduct extended patrol operations on economical diesel power while retaining the ability to sprint to 28 knots when tactical situations demand.

The 24-knot sustained speed is deliberately conservative by modern warship standards. Trade convoys typically transit at 12 to 18 knots, and a 24-knot escort can easily maintain station while retaining sprint reserve. The lower design speed simplified the propulsion system, improving reliability and reducing maintenance costs. For a class intended to be built in large numbers and deployed globally, these considerations outweighed the desire for maximum performance.

Range of 6,500 nautical miles at 15 knots and 45-day endurance without replenishment suit the class for extended patrol deployments. The vessel can operate independently in distant waters or serve as a convoy escort on transoceanic routes without frequent logistics support.

Combat systems

The weapons fit reflects the auxiliary cruiser role: sufficient firepower for patrol and escort duties without the specialized systems required for fleet combat against peer adversaries.

Two 76mm OTO Melara dual-purpose guns provide the primary surface and limited anti-air capability. These proven weapons offer high reliability and ammunition compatibility across multiple Raspur Pact navies. Eight anti-ship missile launchers give the vessel meaningful surface strike capability against hostile vessels. Two 30mm close-in weapon systems and four 12.7mm machine guns address small craft threats common in patrol operations.

The single 16-cell vertical launch system provides point defense against air and missile threats. While modest compared to the 64 to 96 cells found on dedicated air defense destroyers, the VLS gives each Manco Cápac-class vessel organic air defense capability without requiring escort. Two triple torpedo tubes with 324mm lightweight torpedoes provide anti-submarine armament.

Sensors and electronics

The original Block I sensor suite relied on commercially-derived systems selected for availability rather than cutting-edge capability. The ESB-NAV-14 surface search radar and ESB-AIR-27 air search radar provide adequate situational awareness for patrol operations. The Javelin SONAR-4 hull-mounted sonar offers basic anti-submarine detection capability. The Pontecorvo ICS-1 integrated command system, while lacking the sophistication of fleet combat management systems, adequately coordinates the vessel's weapons and sensors.

Block II modernization replaced these systems with significantly enhanced electronics, detailed in the Modernization section below.

Aviation facilities

The aft helicopter deck measures 15 by 15 meters and can accommodate a single Javelin H-2 Siren utility helicopter or equivalent aircraft. A telescoping hangar provides covered maintenance capability in adverse weather. The aviation facilities support anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, vertical replenishment, and personnel transfer missions.

Block II upgrades added UAV handling capability, with the flight deck modified to support launch and recovery of two reconnaissance drones. These unmanned systems extend the vessel's surveillance range and reduce helicopter flight hours for routine patrol tasks.

Accommodation and endurance

Crew comfort received greater attention than typical for warships of this size, reflecting the extended deployments expected of patrol vessels. Officer cabins accommodate two personnel each. Enlisted berthing uses a three-high bunk arrangement with personal storage lockers. Common areas include a combined mess and recreation space, a small library, and exercise facilities.

The vessel can accommodate up to 40 additional personnel beyond the standard crew complement. This capacity supports embarked personnel including special forces detachments, humanitarian assistance teams, training cadets, or marine boarding parties. Several vessels have been configured as training ships with expanded berthing for naval academy students.

Emergency Shipbuilding Program

At the direction of the Department of Defense, the Pontecorvo Firm and ESB Susa were instructed to halt all ongoing work in order to refocus upon immediate naval requirements arising from the threat posed by the Confederacy of the Dispossessed.

The initial order called for sixty ships to be built, with work divided equally between Pontecorvo and Honourable Company shipyards in Nouvelle Alexandrie. These were to be launched by the end of the year, with fitting out of armaments, sensors, and command and control systems conducted by Javelin Industries and partners using off-the-shelf systems available for immediate use. Only existing technologies were permitted; research and development work was actively prohibited.

Commissariat agents from the National Ordnance and Procurement Board were dispatched during IV.1719 AN to establish a Department of Defense presence at the following shipyards:

• Pontecorvo Shipbuilding Yards (Pontecorvo, Alduria)
• Rothborne Shipbuilding & Offshore Industries Complex (Rothborne City, Alduria)
• La Fortaleza de Melusina Yard Complex (La Fortaleza de Melusina, South Lyrica)
• Port Tablot Shipyards (Port Tablot, Isles of Caputia)
• Aldurian Shipbuilding Yards (Alkhiva, Alduria)
• ESB Armada (Alkhiva, Alduria)

Each yard faced the obligation to lay down and launch ten hulls within the space of a year. Industry observers met this target with considerable skepticism. Trade press publications began noting the improbability of the schedule, and speculation appeared in left and liberal-leaning national news coverage regarding what compromises would be required to achieve the requisite production.

The depth of the program's troubles became apparent in VII.1720 AN when word leaked that instead of sixty vessels being laid down, work had commenced on only two, neither of which had yet launched. The commercial ancestry of the design became obvious to all observers as the ships took shape.

The delays stemmed partly from jurisdictional conflicts between the National Ordnance and Procurement Board under the Department of Defense and the Joint Production Accelerator Cell within the Office of Procurement, which reported directly to the Office of the President. Both entities simultaneously fended off attempts by the Naval Forces Office and Military-Industrial Relations Bureau of Keltia Command to reorient shipbuilding toward escort corvettes for transoceanic trade fleets, while Trans-Euran Command advocated for landing craft and minesweepers for Gulf of Zinjibar operations.

These delays ironically permitted the correction of numerous design flaws identified during construction of the initial two warships. The final product represented a considerable improvement over what would have been produced under the original rushed timeline.

In XIII.1720 AN, ESB Armada was removed from the emergency shipping program and directed to focus its shipbuilding capacity upon international orders, which had been received from the Benacian Union, Hurmu, Normark, and the Suren Confederacy. The program completed in 1733 AN with delivery of the final ESB-built hulls to export customers. The twenty vessels originally delivered to Normark were subsequently transferred to other Raspur Pact operators or placed in reserve following that nation's collapse.

Block designations

Block I (1719-1733)

The original production configuration built during the Emergency Shipbuilding Program. Block I vessels featured the ESB-NAV-14 and ESB-AIR-27 radar suite, Javelin SONAR-4 hull-mounted sonar, Pontecorvo ICS-1 integrated command system, JI-ECM-2 electronic countermeasures, and a crew complement of 180. These vessels represented the baseline configuration delivered to all operators.

By 1740 AN, Block I systems were approaching obsolescence. Sensor performance lagged behind evolving threats. The combat management system could not integrate with modern networked warfare concepts. Electronic warfare capabilities were inadequate against contemporary jamming and targeting systems.

Block II (1741-1745)

The Block II modernization program upgraded 60 New Alexandrian and approximately 80 allied vessels between 1741 AN and 1745 AN. The upgrade package included the ESB-NAV-17 surface search radar with improved range and resolution, the ESB-AIR-32 combined air and surface search radar with enhanced tracking capability, and the Javelin SONAR-6 hull-mounted sonar with improved detection performance against modern submarines.

The most significant upgrade was replacement of the Pontecorvo ICS-1 with the INCMS-Lite combat management system, a simplified version of the Integrated Naval Combat Management System used aboard front-line warships. This integration enabled networked operations with other Raspur Pact vessels and shore-based command centers. The JI-ECM-3 electronic countermeasures suite provided improved jamming and deception capabilities. Additional torpedo decoy systems enhanced survivability against submarine attack.

Automation improvements reduced crew requirements to 165 personnel while improving operational effectiveness. UAV handling capability was added to the aviation facilities. Hull life extension work addressed corrosion and fatigue issues identified in the oldest vessels.

Block III (planned, 1755+)

Planning has begun for a Block III upgrade to extend the class into the 1760s and beyond. Preliminary concepts under consideration include integration with Force 1752 network architectures, enhanced autonomous systems operation, directed energy point defense systems, Alexandrium-enhanced sensor packages for improved detection capability, and further crew reduction through advanced automation.

The scope and timeline of Block III remain subject to budget allocation and ongoing assessment of class service life. The Federal Navy has initiated a Fleet Sustainment Study to determine whether continued modernization or eventual replacement better serves long-term requirements.

Variants

Standard multi-role (MC-S)

The baseline configuration operated by the majority of vessels. The MC-S variant balances patrol, escort, anti-submarine, and presence mission requirements. Most Block I and Block II vessels fall into this category.

Anti-submarine warfare (MC-ASW)

Twelve New Alexandrian vessels and an unknown number of Benacian Union ships have been optimized for anti-submarine warfare. The MC-ASW variant receives an enhanced sonar suite including a towed array, additional torpedo stowage, and specialized ASW-trained crews. These vessels typically operate in hunter-killer pairs or as escorts for high-value units transiting submarine-threatened waters.

Training ship (MC-T)

Eight vessels have been converted to dedicated training roles. The MC-T variant features expanded berthing for up to 80 cadets, classroom and simulation facilities installed in the former mission bay, and additional safety systems. These vessels serve the naval academies of Nouvelle Alexandrie and Hurmu, providing at-sea training for officer candidates.

Command variant (MC-C)

Four vessels have been modified as squadron flagships. The MC-C variant includes an expanded combat information center, additional communications equipment, and accommodation for an embarked admiral and staff. These ships typically lead patrol squadrons or serve as on-scene commanders during multi-vessel operations.

Arctic patrol (MC-A)

Twenty vessels were originally delivered to Normark with the MC-A arctic patrol configuration, and selected New Alexandrian hulls operating in high-latitude waters have received similar modifications. Ice-strengthened bow sections, enhanced heating systems, cold-weather crew equipment, and modified fresh water systems enable extended operations in polar conditions. Following Normark's collapse, the former Normark vessels were transferred to other operators or placed in reserve.

Operational history

Early service and proving (1721-1730)

The first vessel, HMS Manco Cápac, commissioned on 15.I.1721 AN following sea trials that revealed both the class's limitations and its unexpected strengths. Initial operations focused on convoy escort duties during the ongoing Wars of the Disinherited, the very mission that had prompted the Emergency Shipbuilding Program.

Despite the troubled development, the Manco Cápac-class proved immediately useful. The commercial-derived hull handled rough seas well. The CODOG propulsion system demonstrated the reliability that would become the class's hallmark. Crews appreciated the relatively spacious accommodation and straightforward systems that required minimal specialized training.

By 1725 AN, sufficient vessels had entered service to establish dedicated escort squadrons. The class quickly became the workhorse of convoy protection operations, freeing more capable warships for fleet duties. The vessels' endurance and sea-keeping qualities suited them for the long transits required to escort trade fleets between Keltia, Apollonia, and Eura.

Wars of the Disinherited (1719-1730)

The Wars of the Disinherited provided the operational crucible that validated the Manco Cápac-class design. Operating primarily in convoy escort roles, the class protected merchant shipping from Confederacy of the Dispossessed raiders and provided presence patrols in threatened waters.

Notable engagements included the defense of Convoy KA-47 in VII.1724 AN, when HMS Pachamama and HMS Supay repelled attacks by three hostile fast attack craft, sinking two and driving off the third without loss of escorted vessels. The action demonstrated that the class's modest armament was adequate against the asymmetric threats typical of the conflict.

The class suffered its first combat loss when HMS Mamacocha (Hull No. 014) was struck by an anti-ship missile during patrol operations in IX.1726 AN. The vessel remained afloat despite severe damage, and the crew saved the ship through effective damage control. Following repairs, Mamacocha returned to service, earning the informal title "Lucky Fourteen" among Federal Navy personnel.

By the conclusion of hostilities, Manco Cápac-class vessels had escorted over 400 convoys comprising more than 3,000 merchant vessels. The class achieved a protection rate exceeding 99.7%, with only eleven escorted ships lost to enemy action across the entire conflict.

Peacetime operations (1730-1740)

The decade following the Wars of the Disinherited established the Manco Cápac-class as the backbone of routine naval operations across all Raspur Pact navies operating the type. Patrol, presence, fisheries protection, anti-piracy, and humanitarian assistance missions consumed the majority of operational deployments.

The class proved particularly valuable for sovereignty patrols in distant waters. A Manco Cápac-class vessel could maintain station for 45 days without replenishment, showing the flag in remote areas where more capable warships were not required. The vessels' commercial-derived systems could be maintained at allied commercial ports, reducing dependence on dedicated naval facilities.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations demonstrated the class's versatility. The flexible mission bay could be configured for medical support, supply distribution, or refugee accommodation. Several vessels earned commendations for rescue operations during maritime disasters.

East Keltian Collapse

The East Keltian Collapse placed heavy demands on available naval forces. Manco Cápac-class vessels conducted evacuation operations, protected humanitarian convoys, and maintained order in contested waters. The class's numbers proved essential; while premium warships concentrated on high-threat areas, the auxiliary cruisers provided the persistent presence required across the vast operational area.

HMS Vigilante (Hull No. 032) distinguished itself during the evacuation of civilian personnel from collapsing coastal settlements, making seventeen separate extraction runs under intermittent hostile fire. The vessel's commanding officer, Commander Elena Vargas, received the Order of Naval Merit for leadership during the operation.

The conflict reinforced lessons about the value of quantity alongside quality. More capable warships could not be everywhere simultaneously. The Manco Cápac-class provided the coverage that allowed concentrated force to be applied where needed most.

Fourth Euran War (1744-1745)

The Fourth Euran War represented the most intense combat deployment in the class's history. Operating in support of Operation Solidarity Shield, Manco Cápac-class vessels escorted logistics convoys transporting military equipment and humanitarian supplies to Constancia and forward operating areas.

Convoy escort duties during the conflict proved considerably more dangerous than previous operations. Oportian forces possessed modern anti-ship missiles and submarine capabilities that had not been present during the Wars of the Disinherited. The Block II upgrades completed just before the conflict proved their worth, with the improved electronic warfare suites credited with defeating multiple missile attacks through jamming and decoy deployment.

HMS Redoutable (Hull No. 060) earned particular distinction during the defense of a high-value logistics convoy in IV.1745 AN. When Oportian fast attack craft attempted to penetrate the escort screen, Redoutable engaged and sank two hostile vessels while coordinating defensive fire from accompanying warships. The action prevented any losses among the eighteen escorted merchant vessels carrying critical military supplies.

The class suffered two combat losses during the conflict. HMS Ceres (Hull No. 047) was struck by multiple anti-ship missiles during an engagement in VI.1745 AN; despite heroic damage control efforts, the vessel was eventually scuttled after the crew was evacuated. HMS Asunción (Hull No. 048) was torpedoed by an Oportian submarine in VIII.1745 AN; the vessel sank with the loss of 23 crew members, the heaviest single-incident casualties in the class's history.

Despite these losses, the class's overall performance validated the design philosophy. The vessels absorbed damage that would have destroyed less robust ships. Crews trained on the straightforward systems performed effectively under combat stress. The sheer number of available hulls ensured that losses could be absorbed without compromising mission capability.

Contemporary service (1746-present)

Following the Fourth Euran War, the class continues to serve as the primary patrol and presence platform across all operating navies. Post-conflict analysis credited the Block II upgrades with significantly improving survivability, validating the modernization investment.

With hostilities concluded, the class has returned to the routine operations that constitute the majority of naval activity: patrol, presence, training, and international engagement. Recent deployments have included counter-piracy operations, fisheries enforcement, search and rescue coordination, and diplomatic port visits demonstrating Raspur Pact solidarity.

The class remains in high demand across all operating navies. Despite thirty years of service for the oldest hulls, the vessels continue to prove their value through reliable performance and low operating costs.

Service life extension

Current status

As of 1750 AN, the oldest Manco Cápac-class vessels have been in service for nearly thirty years. Original design life was thirty years; Block II upgrades extended this to approximately thirty-five to forty years. The class is expected to serve into the 1760s.

Hull surveys conducted during Block II modernization found the commercial-derived construction to be holding up well. The robust design philosophy prioritized durability over performance, and this choice has proven sound. Corrosion issues have been manageable through standard maintenance. Structural fatigue in high-stress areas can be addressed through targeted repairs.

Fleet Sustainment Study

The Federal Navy initiated the Manco Cápac-class Fleet Sustainment Study in 1749 AN to determine the optimal approach for maintaining patrol and escort capability beyond 1760 AN. The study examines three primary options.

The first option extends Block II vessels through a Block III upgrade program targeting service until 1770 AN-1775 AN. This approach offers the lowest near-term cost and maintains a proven platform. However, accumulating obsolescence may limit effectiveness against evolving threats.

The second option involves a partial replacement program, retiring the oldest Block I vessels that did not receive Block II upgrades while initiating design of a next-generation auxiliary cruiser. This balanced approach spreads investment over time but requires managing two different vessel types during the transition period.

The third option pursues full replacement with a new-design successor class incorporating modern technologies from the outset. This approach offers the greatest long-term capability improvement but requires substantial near-term investment during a period of competing shipbuilding priorities including the Vanguard-class aircraft carrier and Dominion-class arsenal ship programs.

The study is expected to deliver recommendations by 1752 AN, informing budget planning for the following decade.

Allied operator considerations

The Benacian Union, operating 120 vessels (the largest fleet of any operator), has indicated plans to follow New Alexandrian modernization decisions. The common platform and shared parts inventory benefit from synchronized upgrade programs.

Hurmu and the Suren Confederacy each operate smaller fleets and will evaluate their requirements based on Federal Navy decisions and their specific operational needs.

Operators

Current operators

• Federal Navy of Nouvelle Alexandrie: 60 vessels. All Block II modernized 1741 AN-1745 AN. Two combat losses during the Fourth Euran War (HMS Ceres, HMS Asunción); both replaced by transfer from reserve.

• Maritime Forces of the Benacian Union: 120 vessels. Largest operator of the class. Approximately 80 vessels Block II modernized; remainder operating in Block I configuration pending budget allocation for upgrades.

• Naval Forces of the Popular Levy: 20 vessels. Operated primarily in Gulf of Zinjibar and Trans-Euran waters.

• Hurmu Fyrd: 20 vessels. Originally transferred to Revenue Service of Hurmu in 1698 AN; reassigned to Hurmu Peace Corps 1700 AN.

Former operators

• Royal Normark Navy: 20 vessels originally delivered, all configured as MC-A arctic patrol variant. Status following Normark's collapse uncertain; vessels believed transferred to other Raspur Pact operators or placed in reserve.

Total production

240 vessels built between 1719 AN and 1733 AN.

Ships of the class

Federal Navy of Nouvelle Alexandrie

• Federal Navy of Nouvelle Alexandrie
  • Manco Cápac (Hull No. 001, Pennant No. C-101) - work commenced on 7.IV.1719 AN at the Port Tablot Shipyards, launched 22.X.1720 AN; underwent final outfitting and sea trials, commissioned on 15.I.1721 AN. Lead ship of class.
  • Basileus Giakoumis (Hull No. 002, Pennant No. C-102) - work commenced on 8.IV.1719 AN at the Pontecorvo Shipbuilding Yards, launched 24.X.1720 AN; completed fitting out and sea trials, commissioned on 5.II.1721 AN.
  • Pontecorvo (Hull No. 003, Pennant No. C-103) - work commenced on 10.XII.1719 AN at the Aldurian Shipbuilding Yards; construction completed, launched on 16.II.1721 AN; commissioned 6.IV.1722 AN.
  • Santa Melusina (Hull No. 004, Pennant No. C-104) - work commenced on 19.XI.1720 AN at the Pontecorvo Shipbuilding Yards; completed construction, launched on 10.III.1721 AN; commissioned 8.V.1722 AN.
  • Edgard II (Hull No. 005, Pennant No. C-105) - work commenced on 24.XI.1720 AN at the Rothborne Shipbuilding & Offshore Industries Complex; launched on 14.IV.1721 AN; commissioned 10.VI.1722 AN.
  • Nathan III (Hull No. 006, Pennant No. C-106) - work commenced on 22.XIV.1720 AN at the La Fortaleza de Melusina Yard Complex; construction completed, launched on 1.V.1721 AN; commissioned 12.VIII.1722 AN.
  • Francis Joseph IV (Hull No. 007, Pennant No. C-107) - work commenced on 22.XIV.1720 AN at the Port Tablot Shipyards; launched on 30.VI.1721 AN; commissioned 20.IX.1722 AN.
  • Edgard I (Hull No. 008, Pennant No. C-108) - work commenced on 5.IX.1721 AN at the Port Tablot Shipyards; launched 20.VIII.1722 AN; commissioned 1.XI.1722 AN.
  • Queen Abigail (Hull No. 009, Pennant No. C-109) - work commenced on 10.IV.1722 AN at the Aldurian Shipbuilding Yards; launched 6.IX.1722 AN; commissioned 25.X.1722 AN.
  • Queen Alexandra (Hull No. 010, Pennant No. C-110) - work commenced on 15.VII.1721 AN at the Rothborne Shipbuilding & Offshore Industries Complex; launched on 2.XI.1721 AN; commissioned 30.XII.1722 AN.
  • Sinchi Roca I (Hull No. 011, Pennant No. C-111) - work commenced on 20.II.1722 AN at the Port Tablot Shipyards; launched 15.IX.1722 AN; commissioned 20.I.1723 AN.
  • Mamaquilla (Hull No. 012, Pennant No. C-112)
  • Pachamama (Hull No. 013, Pennant No. C-113) - Distinguished service during defense of Convoy KA-47, VII.1724 AN.
  • Mamacocha (Hull No. 014, Pennant No. C-114) - Struck by anti-ship missile IX.1726 AN; survived through damage control; repaired and returned to service. Known as "Lucky Fourteen."
  • Urcuchillay (Hull No. 015, Pennant No. C-115)
  • Mama Sara (Hull No. 016, Pennant No. C-116)
  • Supay (Hull No. 017, Pennant No. C-117) - Distinguished service during defense of Convoy KA-47, VII.1724 AN.
  • Urcaguary (Hull No. 018, Pennant No. C-118)
  • Huacas (Hull No. 019, Pennant No. C-119)
  • St. Natsanet (Hull No. 020, Pennant No. C-120)
  • St. Luis the Protector (Hull No. 021, Pennant No. C-121)
  • Our Lady of the Storms and Sorrows (Hull No. 022, Pennant No. C-122)
  • Mitra (Hull No. 023, Pennant No. C-123)
  • Oriente (Hull No. 024, Pennant No. C-124)
  • Soberano (Hull No. 025, Pennant No. C-125)
  • Santísima Trinidad (Hull No. 026, Pennant No. C-126)
  • Nuestra Señora (Hull No. 027, Pennant No. C-127)
  • Señora de la Santísima (Hull No. 028, Pennant No. C-128)
  • La Real (Hull No. 029, Pennant No. C-129)
  • Nuestra Señora del Buen Fin (Hull No. 030, Pennant No. C-130)
  • El Poderoso (Hull No. 031, Pennant No. C-131)
  • Vigilante (Hull No. 032, Pennant No. C-132) - Distinguished service during East Keltian Collapse evacuation operations. Commander Elena Vargas awarded Order of Naval Merit.
  • San Nicolás (Hull No. 033, Pennant No. C-133)
  • San Isidro (Hull No. 034, Pennant No. C-134)
  • Salvador del Mundo (Hull No. 035, Pennant No. C-135)
  • San Ildefonso (Hull No. 036, Pennant No. C-136)
  • Conde de Regla (Hull No. 037, Pennant No. C-137)
  • Matilde (Hull No. 038, Pennant No. C-138)
  • San Fermín (Hull No. 039, Pennant No. C-139)
  • Firme (Hull No. 040, Pennant No. C-140)
  • Diana (Hull No. 041, Pennant No. C-141)
  • San Antonio (Hull No. 042, Pennant No. C-142)
  • Glorioso (Hull No. 043, Pennant No. C-143)
  • Señora de Atocha (Hull No. 044, Pennant No. C-144)
  • Atlante (Hull No. 045, Pennant No. C-145)
  • San José (Hull No. 046, Pennant No. C-146)
  • Ceres (Hull No. 047, Pennant No. C-147) - Struck by multiple anti-ship missiles VI.1745 AN during Fourth Euran War; scuttled after crew evacuation. Combat loss.
  • Asunción (Hull No. 048, Pennant No. C-148) - Torpedoed by Oportian submarine VIII.1745 AN during Fourth Euran War; sunk with loss of 23 crew. Combat loss.
  • Santa Justa (Hull No. 049, Pennant No. C-149)
  • Santa Balbina (Hull No. 050, Pennant No. C-150)
  • Santa Paula (Hull No. 051, Pennant No. C-151)
  • Neptuno (Hull No. 052, Pennant No. C-152)
  • Scipion (Hull No. 053, Pennant No. C-153)
  • Rayo (Hull No. 054, Pennant No. C-154)
  • Formidable (Hull No. 055, Pennant No. C-155)
  • Mount Itni (Hull No. 056, Pennant No. C-156)
  • San Agustin (Hull No. 057, Pennant No. C-157)
  • Héros (Hull No. 058, Pennant No. C-158)
  • Bucentaure (Hull No. 059, Pennant No. C-159)
  • Redoutable (Hull No. 060, Pennant No. C-160) - Distinguished service during convoy defense IV.1745 AN; sank two Oportian fast attack craft.

Maritime Forces of the Benacian Union

• Maritime Forces of the Benacian Union: 120 vessels built by ESB Armada. Hull numbers BU-001 through BU-120.

Other operators

• Naval Forces of the Popular Levy: 20 vessels. Hull numbers SC-001 through SC-020.
• Hurmu Fyrd: 20 vessels. Hull numbers HP-001 through HP-020.

Former operators

• Royal Normark Navy (defunct): 20 vessels originally assigned. Hull numbers RN-001 through RN-020. All MC-A arctic patrol variant. Current disposition uncertain following Normark's collapse.

Assessment

Naval traditionalists initially dismissed the Manco Cápac-class as inadequate for serious combat. The commercial-derived design, modest armament, and procurement scandal origins created a perception that the class represented an unworthy compromise. Three decades of operational service proved otherwise.

The class performs precisely the role for which it was designed: persistent presence, reliable escort, and flexible response across the vast areas that modern navies must patrol. A Manco Cápac-class vessel cannot defeat a peer adversary's air defense destroyer in single combat, but that was never the requirement. With 220 hulls currently in active service across four navies, one is always available somewhere. This ubiquity freed more capable warships for high-threat missions while ensuring routine operations received adequate coverage.

The commercial heritage that initially embarrassed naval planners became a maintenance advantage. Ships can be serviced at commercial ports without specialized naval facilities. Spare parts share compatibility with civilian systems. Crews transitioning from merchant marine service find familiar equipment. This practical design philosophy produced operational availability rates consistently exceeding 85 percent.

Combat record further validated the class. During the Wars of the Disinherited, Manco Cápac-class escorts protected over 99.7 percent of convoy vessels from enemy action. The robust construction allowed ships to survive damage that would have destroyed lighter warships. During the Fourth Euran War, combat losses remained proportionally low despite the intensity of operations, and the straightforward systems performed reliably under stress.

As the oldest vessels approach the end of their original thirty-year design life, the Federal Navy must determine the future of the class. Replacement would be expensive, and the ships remain operationally useful. Whatever decision emerges from the Fleet Sustainment Study, the Manco Cápac-class has established itself as the workhorse of the Raspur Pact.

See also

• Emergency Shipbuilding Program
• Federal Navy of Nouvelle Alexandrie
• Pontecorvo Firm
• ESB Armada
• Wars of the Disinherited
• Fourth Euran War
• Force 1752 initiative