Second MMPV for the Bulgarian Navy launched at local shipyard

The second of the two new multifunctional modular patrol vessels (MMPV) of the Bulgarian Navy, Smeli (Brave), has been launched ahead of schedule. A ceremony was held in the Varna-based shipyard MTG Dolphin.

According to the contract signed at the end of 2020 between the Ministry of Defense and the German shipbuilding company Luerssen (part of the NVL Group), the navy will acquire two MMPVs, both of which are being built at MTG Dolphin.

The ships will have modern capabilities to conduct effective combat operations against air, surface and underwater enemies in accordance with NATO standards.

The first of the two new ships, the Hrabri has already been launched and is currently undergoing fitout. Preparations for sea trials have also reportedly begun, with an expected acceptance date of end-2025.

The launch of the second ship, the Smeli, was contracted to take place in April 2025, but was delayed.

Separate contracts have already been signed for the supply of the necessary ammunition for the ships' weapons systems - for anti-ship missiles, anti-aircraft guided missiles and homing torpedoes.

At the same time, procurement is underway for the encryption devices for communications facilities under the US Government's Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.