First of Three Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels Launched

The first of three multi-mission inshore patrol vessels (MMIPVs) was launched at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, recently. Procured by ARMSCOR they will be delivered to the South African Navy which says they will be used to augment South Africa’s maritime security including threats such as illegal trafficking and fishing activity.

As a maritime traffic zone South Africa’s 2850 km coastline and 1.5 million km2 Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), is increasingly busy. The Mozambique Channel has for several years been a source of concern for the South African authorities because of its susceptibility to piracy, illegal fishing and trafficking activity. Changes to legislation have also enabled oil and gas exploration activity and speculators. The most recent insurrection in far northern Mozambique continues to highlight the potential security threat South Africa could face in the future.

Given this scenario, gone are the days when the original fleet of patrol vessels will suffice. Now there is a greater need for more sophisticated, faster, powerful, and militarised vessels. ARMSCOR is expecting delivery of the three inshore patrol vessels, three boarding boats and three sea boats under the R2,4 billion Project Biro contract, by December 2025.