South African IPV programme reaches new milestone
A blessing ceremony was conducted in Cape Town for the first of three Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels for the South African Navy.
The South African Navy (SAN) held a low-key blessing ceremony on 12 February for its first Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPV) at Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT).
In all, three MMIPVs — being built by DSCT for the SAN under Project Biro — will be used for missions such as maritime patrol and EEZ protection missions.
‘This vessel will be crucial in search and rescue operations and a critical link in security operations. The reconfigurability of the ship makes it a force multiplier in any littoral environment for the SA Navy,’ Chief of the SAN, VAdm Mosiwa Hlongwane, said during the blessing ceremony.
Names for the three vessels are yet to be officially announced. Each MMIPV will be 62.2m long with a beam of 11.5m and draft of 4m, carrying a crew of 48. The 1,031t vessels will have a maximum speed of 30kt and range of 5,000nmi.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the first MMPIV may enter service as early as mid-2021, followed by the second in 2022 and the third in 2023.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Project Biro (1-3) [South Africa]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme]()
US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme
The US Navy intends to enhance the integration and lethality of the Aegis capabilities onboard its cruisers and destroyers.
-
![Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs]()
Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
-
![Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027]()
Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027
The US Navy’s Zumwalt-class destroyer is a stealth ship originally designed to consist of a fleet of 32 but has been cut back to three. Conceived for a land-attack role, it is now being fitted with a hypersonic missile capability.
-
![US Coast Guard commissions first icebreaker acquired in the last 25 years]()
US Coast Guard commissions first icebreaker acquired in the last 25 years
The Cutter Storis officially entered service with the Branch on 10 August. The new capability will be operated from Juneau, Alaska.
