First Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel Delivered to South African Navy

The vessel from Damen will augment South Africa’s maritime security by enhancing the country’s capability to respond effectively, rapidly and cost-effectively to threats By DA Staff / 25 May 2022

Discover Leading Defense Technology Solutions

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
First Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel Delivered to South African Navy
Follow DA

In a ceremony held at Simons Town Naval Base in Cape Town, South Africa, the first of three state-of-the-art Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs) has been handed over to the South African Navy. The vessel marks the culmination of four years of work for Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT).  

The vessel will augment South Africa’s maritime security by enhancing the country’s capability to respond effectively, rapidly and cost-effectively to threats.

The 62 meter by 11 meter vessels have been designed by Damen to deliver a rapid response capability that is both effective and cost efficient. The vessel is the first Damen Sea Axe vessel to operate in South Africa where, along with its sister ships, its primary role will be to counter piracy, illegal fishing and smuggling operations. However, their ability to accommodate at short notice containerized mission modules gives them a true multi-mission capability. The patented design delivers exceptional seakeeping behavior with the straight-edged bow cutting through the water thereby improving comfort and safety while reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

The MMIPV project is also playing an important role in creating skilled new jobs and acting as a catalyst for the development of regional supply chains. On its own, the MMIPV project is expected to generate more than one million man-hours of work during the construction of the three MMIPVs and will support more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs at DSCT. In addition, the yard is also focusing on nurturing small businesses to maximize local content.

“The delivery is a significant milestone in the story of Damen Shipyards Cape Town. It is the first time that a naval vessel of this caliber has been built at the yard and it is also the first of its class! Despite the COVID 19 pandemic, this beautiful vessel has been built to the required quality level which is an achievement that was realised by South African people, as most of the work and materials that went into the construction were sourced locally,” said Mr Sam Montsi, Chairman of the Damen Shipyards Cape Town Board.

“The yard has significantly grown during this process both in the quality of work and the safety standards achieved. This project has also allowed the yard to increase the impact of its transformation strategy by consistently delivering relevant development to the communities of South Africa.”

Work on the remaining two vessels is well underway at DSCT, with the second vessel handover planned for 2023 and the third for 2024.

From right to left: DSCT Board Member, Mr Sam Montsi, hands over a delivery token to Vice Admiral Mosuwa Samuel Hlongwane, Chief of South African Navy
From right to left: DSCT Board Member, Mr Sam Montsi, hands over a delivery token to Vice Admiral Mosuwa Samuel Hlongwane, Chief of South African Navy
Posted by DA Staff Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

Advanced SWIR Cameras Delivered for Key Defense Programs in North America

SCD USA’s MIRA SWIR camera is being integrated into key North American defense programs, offering advanced imaging, high frame rates, and compact, low-power performance

May 30, 2025
Key Differences Between OEMs & Rebranding Vendors for Military Electronics

MilDef outlines why distinguishing between genuine OEMs and rebranding vendors is critical when sourcing rugged military electronics

May 30, 2025
Most Read Articles on DA in May 2025

In May 2025, a number of significant developments were published on Defense Advancement, including the latest news in Group 2 UAS, head-mounted systems, and USVs

May 30, 2025
Adtran Integrates White Rabbit for Sub-Nanosecond Timing Across Oscilloquartz Platforms

Adtran has enhanced its Oscilloquartz timing solutions with software-based White Rabbit technology, enabling sub-nanosecond synchronization for critical applications without hardware upgrades

May 29, 2025
Dantherm’s Climate Control Systems for Deployed Forces

Explore how Dantherm ensures safety and comfort in field camps with rugged, energy-efficient climate solutions built for extreme weather and rapid deployment

May 29, 2025
New Expeditionary USV for Covert Maritime Surveillance & Special Forces Missions

FLANQ’s new Q-RECON USV delivers agile, man-portable maritime surveillance and interdiction capabilities, purpose-built for special forces and operations in littoral environments

May 29, 2025

Featured Content

U.S. Army Aircraft to Receive Connectivity Upgrade with Honeywell SATCOM

Honeywell’s JetWave X SATCOM system is set to upgrade the U.S. Army’s ARES aircraft, enhancing global connectivity and mission-critical communications for ISR and electronic warfare

May 28, 2025
New Hybrid Solution for Long-Term GNSS-Denied Navigation

Advanced Navigation has demonstrated a major breakthrough with a Hybrid Navigation System designed for GPS-denied environments, combining a strategic-grade FOG INS with a laser velocity sensor

May 21, 2025
Trillium Gimbal Enhances Imaging for Launched Effects & Loitering Munitions

Trillium Engineering introduces the HD25-LV-C, a lightweight imaging system optimized for cost-constrained, expendable platforms like Launched Effects and loitering munitions

May 21, 2025
Advancing Defense Capability Through Strategic Collaboration Defense Advancement works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive defense capabilities forward.