Damen has just launched NRP Dom João II, the Portuguese Navy’s new drone mothership, in Romania at its Galati Shipyard.
Officially designated as Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) 10720, the new ship incorporates a 94m x 11m flight deck for launching uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
The 107-metre ship will also feature mechanisms for launching uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) and uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs). It has been designed as a highly autonomous, lean-crewed platform suited for a variety of missions including oceanographic research and environmental control.
Her deck space will be able to accommodate 12 standard-sized shipping containers (TEUs) which can be used to house mission-specific modular systems such as hospitals, hyperbaric chambers and ROV equipment.
As per a Damen press statement: “The MPV 10720 is designed to support an impressive range of operations from scientific research and drone experimentation to humanitarian relief and disaster support.”
The ship first entered the water yesterday (Tuesday) in a special ceremony attended by Portuguese Navy Vice Admiral Jorge Pires and dignitaries from the Romanian Navy, and the Dutch and Portuguese embassies in Romania.
Chief Commercial Officer at Damen Bram Langeveld commented: “The MPV 10720 is the result of the Portuguese Navy’s forward-thinking and innovative approach to meeting modern naval requirements. Damen has greatly valued the navy’s clear vision and constructive partnership, which has enabled efficient construction within a short timeframe.”
Named after the mediaeval Portuguese 15th-century king famed for his support of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, NRP Dom João II will now be readied for sea trials scheduled to start later this year; following their successful conclusion she will be commissioned into the Portuguese Navy’s fleet.
- You can read more details on the Damen website