The head of Portugal’s Navy has paid a visit to Damen’s Galati shipyard in Romania to check on construction progress of its new Multifunctional Naval Platform (MNP).
The future NRP Dom João II, scheduled for delivery in 2026, has been colloquially dubbed a drone mothership. Her design incorporates a 94m x 11m flight deck for launching uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
The 107-metre MNP will also feature mechanisms for launching uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) and uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs). 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.
To facilitate oceanic exploration and research, the MNP will feature both state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and accommodation for scientific personnel.
As well as maritime security, her range of potential missions will include scientific and technological research, search and rescue (SAR), emergency relief, and environmental and meteorological monitoring.
Last week the Marinha Portuguesa’s Chief of the Navy General Staff Admiral Jorge Nobre de Sousa led a delegation visiting the Galati shipyard where the future NRP Dom João II is being built.
As per a navy press statement: “During the visit, a briefing was given on the project’s development and construction, addressing the main technical challenges identified in the design phase, stemming from the innovative nature and unique concept of this new naval unit, as well as the different phases of construction currently underway.
“Admiral Nobre de Sousa also had the opportunity to monitor the progress of the work on site, noting the high level of execution and commitment of the teams involved in completing this strategic project, which represents a significant milestone in the modernization and strengthening of the Navy’s capabilities.
“At this stage of construction, 17 of the 25 blocks that make up the ship have already been installed.”
- You can read more details on the Portuguese Navy website