Portugal's naval modernisation project moves into top gear

The Portuguese Navy is to accept 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 Fiscalização Costeira - LFC).

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