South African Navy Receives DAMEN-built 2nd Multi Mission Patrol Vessel

South African Navy has received the second of three Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs) in Durban harbour on October 27.

During the ceremony, the vessel was officially named SAS King Shaka Zulu. The vessel was built entirely in South Africa at Damen Shipyards Cape Town and it was designed to deliver rapid response capabilities along South Africa's extensive 2,798-kilometre coastline and it is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding national waters.

The vessel’s Sea Axe hull design, patented by Damen, ensures exceptional seakeeping behaviour, reduced fuel consumption, and enhanced safety and comfort onboard. These vessels, equipped with advanced military equipment bolster the navy's ability to respond effectively and swiftly to threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, and smuggling operations.

A total of 848 local vendors have actively participated in the construction of the MMIPVs.