South African Navy’s first MMIPV floated out

Damen Shipyards Cape Town launched a new South African Navy patrol vessel on Thursday, March 25.

The 62- by 11-metre newbuilding is the first of a planned three locally built multi-mission inshore patrol vessels (MMIPVs) ordered for the navy by the Armaments Corporation of South Africa (ARMSCOR).

The MMIPVs will be used for maritime security patrols as well as patrols to deter piracy, illegal trafficking, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Secondary missions will include dive support and search and rescue (SAR).

Each of the three vessels will feature a Damen patented bow design that will ensure low resistance, high sustained speed in waves, and enhanced seakeeping characteristics. This will ensure significantly reduced vertical acceleration, leading to increased crew and vessel safety.