Portugal's Navy Launches a Vessel Designed to Deploy Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Summary
Damen Shipyards Group's Romanian facility has recently launched a Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV 10720) for the Portuguese Navy, a ship that resembles an aircraft carrier in appearance and is expected to enter active service later in 2026. Officially designated as the NRP (Navio da República Portugues), this 7,000-ton Multi-Purpose Support Ship was developed through a collaborative effort between Damen Shipyards and the Portuguese Navy to create a versatile and innovative naval platform. The vessel measures 108 meters in length and 20 meters in width, capable of reaching a maximum speed of 28 kilometers per hour, and can transport up to 18 containers, 18 vehicles, 10 Rigid Inflatable Boats, or 300 soldiers as needed. Equipped with two hangars accommodating either two helicopters or one helicopter combined with multiple drones, the ship operates from a 94 by 11 meter flight deck, making it well-suited for both military and civilian operations. The MPV 10720 is designed to perform a wide range of missions, including oceanographic research, environmental monitoring, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and maritime security support across tropical and moderate climate regions.
Key Takeaways
- 1. The Portuguese Navy's new MPV 10720 drone carrier was built by Damen Shipyards in Romania and is scheduled to enter service in 2026
- 2. The 7,000-ton vessel is a multi-purpose platform capable of supporting military, scientific, and humanitarian missions simultaneously
- 3. The ship features dedicated aviation infrastructure, including two hangars and a large flight deck capable of supporting helicopters and drones
- 4. With significant cargo flexibility, the vessel can carry containers, vehicles, inflatable boats, or up to 300 troops depending on mission requirements
- 5. The MPV 10720 represents Portugal's commitment to modernizing its naval capabilities through innovative industry partnerships and versatile ship design