Damen Shipyards Cape Town has successfully delivered the third Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel (MMIPV), designated SAS Adam Kok (P1573), to the South African Navy. The handover took place at Naval Base Durban, located on the eastern coast of South Africa, following a series of final technical and quality inspections to ensure that the vessel meets operational standards for future missions aimed at safeguarding the coastline.
Naval Base Durban has been designated as the home port for the patrol squad, although the specific operational deployment date for P1573 has not yet been announced. The successful completion of this vessel, along with its sister ships P1571 and P1572, has directly created over 1,000 jobs and contributed to more than 4,000 indirect jobs in the region.
These vessels are part of Project Biro, a governmental initiative spearheaded by the Department of Defence. The project aims to bolster South Africa’s maritime patrol capabilities while promoting local industrial development. A significant aspect of this initiative is Damen’s on-site Skills Development Centre, where more than 50 apprentices have been trained in crucial trades including welding, outfitting, electrical systems, pipe-fitting, and logistics.
The Warrior-class ships are engineered with an emphasis on endurance, versatility, and operational efficiency. They are equipped to conduct a variety of missions, including search and rescue operations, diving tasks, and border protection. Each vessel features a 20mm Super Sea Rogue gun, cutting-edge surveillance capabilities through a Frequency Modulated Optical Radar Tracker, and a range of interceptor boats measuring seven and nine meters (23 and 29.5 feet) for quick deployment.
Additionally, the deck is outfitted with a knuckle boom crane and two single-point lifting davits capable of lifting equipment weighing up to 5.7 tons (11,400 pounds). The MMIPVs boast a cruising speed of 20 knots (23 miles per hour or 37 kilometers per hour) and are capable of reaching speeds of up to 26.5 knots (30.5 miles per hour or 49 kilometers per hour) with an impressive operational range of 4,600 miles (7,400 kilometers).
The introduction of these patrol vessels marks a significant advancement in South Africa’s naval capabilities, fostering regional security and supporting local economic growth.
