Europe’s first dedicated drone carrier hits the water in Romania

April 8, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Damen Shipyards Group has launched the NRP D. João II, a multi-purpose vessel (MPV) 10720, for the Portuguese Navy.

The vessel entered the water at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania on April 7. The launch event took place in the presence of Vice Admiral Pires on behalf of the Portuguese Navy and other officials.

The MPV 10720 originates from a concept proposed by the Portuguese Navy to create a multi-functional naval platform capable of undertaking a wide range of duties according to its concept of operations.

The ship has a high degree of system autonomy. It is designed for unrestricted service in tropical and moderate environments and is especially suited for multi-purpose activities such as oceanographic research, environmental control, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maritime surveillance and support tasks. The vessel will be capable of deploying unmanned drones and helicopters, according to Damen.

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Vessels

Following a competitive tender process, Damen signed the contract in 2024. The project received funding through the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), part of the NextGenerationEU program.

The launching ceremony marks the start of pre-delivery, but the vessel’s journey has just begun.

“Given Portugal’s vast coastline, this ship is a valuable addition to both the Portuguese navy and European maritime operations. It will support maritime security, scientific research, and disaster relief efforts,” Bram Langeveld, Damen Chief Commercial Officer, stated.

“The MPV 10720 is the result of the Portuguese Navy’s forward-thinking and innovative approach to meeting modern naval requirements. Damen has greatly valued the navy’s clear vision and constructive partnership, which has enabled efficient construction within a short timeframe.”

Sea trials of the vessel are scheduled later this year, after which the MPV will join Damen-built frigates NRP Bartolomeu Dias and NRP D. Francisco de Almeida in the Portuguese naval fleet.