The Brazilian Navy is set to construct 11 NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels with local components to enhance maritime security. The program has a budget of 2.8 billion reais and features advanced armament and technology. The first vessel is expected to be delivered in 2025, with additional units planned through 2037.
Brazil has initiated the construction process for 11 new NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) to enhance its maritime security. This development follows the delivery of the basic engineering plan by the Brazilian Navy’s Naval Systems Design Center (CPSN) to Emgepron, the state-owned enterprise overseeing naval projects. The program will utilize domestically sourced components and is focused on surveillance, rescue operations, and combating illegal activities in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The estimated budget for the eight NPa500MB OPVs stands at 2.8 billion reais (approximately 476 million USD), while three vessels will be specifically tailored for mine countermeasures. Inclusion in the Growth Acceleration Program (New PAC) designates the NPa500MB project as a national priority, with initial costs for the first unit projected at 250 million reais (around 42.5 million USD).
Each NPa500MB vessel will feature advanced armament, including a Bofors Mk4 40 mm gun and dual Oerlikon GAM-B01 20 mm machine guns. The vessels will be equipped with sophisticated navigation systems, an optronic sensor suite, and capabilities for extended surveillance. The specifications detail a length of 58.9 meters, a beam of 9.0 meters, a displacement of 564 tons when loaded, and a maximum draft of 2.5 meters.
The propulsion system comprises two diesel engines that allow a maximum speed of 21.7 knots. The vessels will have a range of 3,000 nautical miles at a service speed, with endurance lasting up to 20 days. A formal technical cooperation agreement between the Brazilian Navy and Emgepron aims to bolster the engineering and shipbuilding aspects of the project.
The production timeline anticipates delivery of the first NPa500MB vessel in 2025, with additional units scheduled for subsequent years. This includes three vessels designated for mine countermeasures, to be delivered between 2031 and 2037. The initiative aims to significantly augment Brazil’s maritime security capabilities and facilitate engagement in international security operations.
Currently, the Brazilian Navy has 22 offshore patrol vessels in various classes, including the Amazonas, Macaé, Bracuí, and Grajaú classes. With the addition of the NPa500MB vessels, Brazil further aims to enhance its operational capacity on the high seas.
Brazil is moving forward with the NPa500MB offshore patrol vessel project, aiming to bolster its maritime security capabilities with locally built patrol vessels. The project emphasizes technological collaboration and prioritizes national interests in naval defense, with a clear timeline for delivery and specifications aimed at improving operational effectiveness in search, rescue, and combat against illegal activities at sea.
Original Source: armyrecognition.com
