Damen Galati Shipyard launched on Tuesday the multi-role ship NRP 'D. Joao II', built for the Portuguese Navy, a project financed by the European Union's Recovery and Resilience Plan, the vessel being intended for a wide range of missions, from research and monitoring to interventions in emergency situations.

According to a press release sent to AGERPRES, the ship's maiden voyage took place in the presence of Vice Admiral Fernando Jorge Pires, on behalf of the Portuguese Navy, Rear Admiral Marcel Neculae, representing the Romanian Naval Forces, Paulo Alves Cunha, the Portuguese Ambassador to Romania, and Mrs. Willemijn van Haaften, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Romania.

Photo credit: Damen

'The MPV 10720 type ship is based on a concept proposed by the Portuguese Navy, aiming to create a multifunctional naval platform, capable of carrying out a wide range of missions, depending on operational needs,' the release said.

At the same time, the ship benefits from a high degree of systems autonomy and is designed to operate without restrictions in tropical and temperate environments.

'It is optimized for various activities, such as oceanographic research, environmental monitoring, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, as well as maritime surveillance and support missions,' the release added.

Following a competitive procurement procedure, Damen signed the contract in 2024.

The project is financed by the European Union's Recovery and Resilience Mechanism (RRF), part of the NextGenerationEU program, with the funds being managed by Recover Portugal (PRR), the cited source states.

Photo credit: Damen

'Starting from the vision of the Portuguese Navy, Damen worked closely with its client, as well as strategic partners and suppliers, to refine the design and turn it into reality. This collaboration also led to the development of Damen's new range of Multi-Role Support Ships (MPSS), with displacements between 7,000 and 9,000 tons, which combine military-grade technology with standardized, cost-effective and rapidly deliverable solutions,' the document informs.

According to the source, the launching ceremony marks the beginning of the preparation phase for delivery, but 'the ship's journey is only just beginning.'

'Given the vast expanse of Portugal's coastline, this ship represents a valuable addition to both the Portuguese Navy and European maritime operations. It will support maritime security, scientific research and disaster response. MPV 10720 is the result of an innovative and forward-looking approach by the Portuguese Navy in adapting to modern naval requirements. Damen particularly appreciates the clear vision and constructive partnership, which allowed for an efficient construction in a short time frame,' said Bram Langeveld, Damen's Chief Commercial Officer, quoted in the release.

The ship is named after the Portuguese king who reigned between 1481 and 1495, known for his support of the Age of Discovery, the release also reads.

'Sea trials are scheduled for this year, after which the ship will enter service with the Portuguese fleet, joining the frigates NRP Bartolomeu Dias and NRP D. Francisco de Almeida, also built by Damen', company representatives inform. AGERPRES(RO - writing by: Nicoleta Banciulea; EN - writing by: Bogdan Gabaroi)