Brazil to Initiate Construction of 11 NPa500MB Offshore Patrol Vessels

The Brazilian Navy will initiate the construction of 11 NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels, focusing on local materials as part of the PRONAPA program. The estimated cost is 2.8 billion reais for eight vessels, with additional vessels for mine countermeasures. The program aims to enhance Brazil’s maritime security and cooperate internationally, while the NPa500MB is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

The Brazilian Navy will commence the construction of 11 NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels, as announced by Brazil Defense Brief on February 24, 2025. The Naval Systems Design Center has submitted the basic engineering plan to Emgepron, the state-owned company overseeing naval projects. This initiative is part of the Patrol Vessel Acquisition Program (PRONAPA), aiming for the domestic construction of these vessels, largely utilizing locally sourced components. The mission of these vessels includes surveillance and protection of the Exclusive Economic Zone, conducting search and rescue operations, and combating illegal fishing activities.

The total estimated cost for eight NPa500MB patrol vessels is approximately 2.8 billion reais (around 476 million USD). Additionally, three more vessels will be specifically designed for mine countermeasure operations. This project has been prioritized as part of the Growth Acceleration Program (New PAC), reflecting its national importance. Emgepron plans to offer the vessel design to allied nations throughout South America, Africa, and Asia, with shipbuilding occurring in national shipyards and an initial construction budget of 250 million reais (about 42.5 million USD) allocated for the first unit.

Key specifications for the NPa500MB include an overall length of 58.9 meters, a beam of 9.0 meters, and a maximum draft of 2.5 meters, with a total displacement of 564 tons when fully loaded. The ships are fitted with a Bofors Mk4 multipurpose gun and two Oerlikon GAM-B01 machine guns, along with a comprehensive Combat Management System. This system encompasses navigation and search radars, an optronic sensor suite, and satellite communication capabilities, ensuring effective operations during long-duration patrols. With a range of 3,000 nautical miles and an operational endurance of 20 days, these vessels will hold significant strategic value.

A formal technical cooperation agreement has been established between the Brazilian Navy and Emgepron to facilitate the engineering design and construction of the NPa500MB. Signed in November 2023, this agreement aims to encourage technological collaboration in the development of naval assets. The production schedule indicates that one ship will be delivered in 2025, with subsequent deliveries planned for 2027 and between 2028 and 2030. The mine countermeasure vessels are expected to enter service between 2031 and 2037, enhancing Brazil’s maritime security and enabling involvement in international security efforts.

Currently, the Brazilian Navy operates 22 offshore patrol vessels categorized across various classes, including the Amazonas-class, Macaé-class, Bracuí-class, and Grajaú-class, all varying in size and capabilities. The future fleet is set to expand with two additional Macaé-class vessels anticipated for commissioning in 2025 and 2027, thereby strengthening the naval capabilities of Brazil.

The Brazilian Navy’s initiative to construct 11 NPa500MB offshore patrol vessels underlines a significant advancement in its maritime capabilities. With a focus on locally sourced components and engineering collaboration, this program aims to enhance national security and participation in international initiatives. As Brazil invests in its naval fleet, including added mine countermeasure vessels, it signals a commitment to safeguarding its waters and expanding its operational presence.

Original Source: armyrecognition.com