Damen Shipyards delivers first MMIPV King Sekhukhune to South Africa.

According to a PR published by Damen Shipyards on May 24, 2022, in a ceremony held at Simons Town Naval Base, the first of three, state-of-the-art, Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs) has been handed over to the South African Navy.
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First Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel Sekhukhune (Picture source: Damen)

The vessel marks the culmination of four years of work for Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT). The vessel being delivered 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 62m by 11m vessels have been designed by Damen to deliver a rapid response capability that is both effective and cost-efficient. The vessel is the first Damen Sea Axe vessel to operate in South Africa where, along with its sister ships, its primary role will be to counter piracy, illegal fishing, and smuggling operations.

However, their ability to accommodate at short notice containerized mission modules gives them a true multi-mission capability. The patented design delivers exceptional seakeeping behavior with the straight-edged bow cutting through the water thereby improving comfort and safety while reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

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. The vessels will be powered by four Caterpillar engines and will carry 2 RHIBS for boarding operations.