Damen lays keel of Warrior-class MMIPV for South African Navy.

According to information published by Damen Shipyards on November 12, 2021, the division of Cape Town (DSCT) held a keel-laying for the third Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPV) that DSCT is building for the South African Navy.
Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

Lays Keel for third Warrior-class MMIPV (Picture source: Damen Shipyards)

The MMIPV vessels will augment South Africa’s maritime security by enhancing the country’s capability to respond effectively, rapidly and cost-effectively to threats such as illegal trafficking and fishing.

The keel-laying ceremony is a maritime tradition that dates back to the time of wooden ships and is said to bring luck to the ship during construction and to the captain and crew during the vessel’s lifetime. The tradition involves placing a newly minted coin on the keel and building over it.

The coin was placed on the keel by the Chief of the Navy (Vice Admiral Hlongwane). The keel bar was then lowered on top of the coin and welded into the structure.

The Warrior-class inshore patrol vessel is a class of multi-mission inshore patrol vessels (MMIPVs) built for the South African Navy by Damen shipyards and intended to replace the aging Warrior-class OPVs

They are based on the Stan Patrol 6211 and will have a maximum speed of 26.5 knots and a range of 4000 nautical miles. Designed to be built with the Sea Axe Hull - the first to operate in South Africa - the straight-edged bow will improve safety, comfort, and significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Equipped with radar, combat management systems, a forward gun position, and various heavy machine guns, the vessels will also carry two RHIBs for boarding operations, with the aft deck being designed to accommodate various container arrangements that aid unique mission requirements.

They will be powered by four Caterpillar engines and will carry 2 RHIBs for boarding operations.