Brazil is initiating the construction of 11 NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels, reinforcing its maritime security. The project, costing approximately 2.8 billion reais, emphasizes local sourcing and aims for international collaboration. Significant advancements include a formal cooperation agreement with Emgepron and an anticipated delivery schedule extending to 2037.
The Brazilian Navy is set to commence the construction of 11 new offshore patrol vessels, the NPa500MBs, as reported by Brazil Defense Brief (BDB) on February 24, 2025. The Naval Systems Design Center (CPSN) has provided the basic engineering plan to Emgepron, the state-owned company overseeing naval projects, which is pivotal to the Patrol Vessel Acquisition Program (PRONAPA). These vessels will comprise a high proportion of locally sourced components and are primarily tasked with safeguarding the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and countering illegal fishing activities.
The total projected cost for eight of the NPa500MB OPVs is approximately 2.8 billion reais (around 476 million USD). The program also encompasses three additional vessels specifically configured for mine countermeasures. Furthermore, the NPa500MB project was designated a national priority under the Growth Acceleration Program (New PAC) in August 2023, with Emgepron planning to market these vessel designs to allied nations across South America, Africa, and Asia.
Vessels will be constructed in domestic shipyards, with an initial unit budget of 250 million reais (approximately 42.5 million USD). The Multi-Year Plan (PPA) for 2024-2027 earmarks 5.26 billion reais (approximately 894.2 million USD) for the program, which is expected to run until 2035. The NPa500MBs will be armed with a Bofors Mk4 40 mm multipurpose gun at the bow and two Oerlikon GAM-B01 20 mm machine guns amidships, along with a comprehensive Combat Management System featuring advanced navigation and radar systems.
The technical cooperation agreement between the Brazilian Navy and Emgepron was formalized in November 2023 to enhance the engineering design and shipbuilding efforts. This partnership aims to promote technological collaboration and facilitate the production of naval innovations. The production schedule anticipates the delivery of the first NPa500MB vessel in 2025, with subsequent deliveries planned throughout the following years, including mine countermeasure vessels from 2031 to 2037.
Currently, the Brazilian Navy operates a fleet of 22 offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) across various classes, including Amazonas, Macaé, Bracuí, and Grajaú classifications. Upcoming additions to the fleet include two Macaé-class vessels anticipated for commissioning in 2025 and 2027, enhancing Brazil’s maritime security and enabling participation in international security initiatives.
In summary, Brazil’s initiative to construct 11 NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels marks a significant advancement in its naval capabilities. The project, supported by a substantial budget and formalized cooperation agreements, aims to enhance maritime security and promote technological collaboration within the defense sector. By diversifying the fleet and incorporating locally sourced components, Brazil positions itself as a growing maritime authority in South America and beyond.
Original Source: armyrecognition.com
