Portuguese naval modernisation programme moves into top gear

摘要

The Portuguese Navy accepted the first of two ex-Royal Netherlands Navy M-frigates into service on 19 May as Lisbon embarks on a fleet recapitalisation programme that includes the construction of at least 20 new ships. NRP Bartolomeu Dias (ex-HrMs Van Nes) arrived at Portugal's main naval base on 30 April, having been handed over at the Dutch base in Den Helder on 16 January. It is part of a modernisation programme that includes the purchase of up to eight 1,600-ton Viana do Castelo-class offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) and eight 640-ton coastal patrol craft (Lancha de Fiscalizagao Costeira - LFC).