Belgium approves Construction of Third Naval Patrol Vessel to Enhance North Sea Security by 2027.

According to information published by the Belgian MoD on November 5, 2024, Belgium has announced plans to construct a third coastal patrol vessel (CPV) for its Navy, set to reinforce national maritime security and support operations in the increasingly strategic North Sea.
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Belgian Navy's Castor-class patrol vessel Castor. (Picture source: Belgian MoD)

Approved by the Belgian Council of Ministers, the vessel will join the Castor-class patrol vessels Castor and Pollux, enhancing the Navy's capabilities in law enforcement, anti-smuggling, pollution control, and infrastructure protection within Belgian waters.

Built by the French shipyard SOCARENAM, the new patrol ship is scheduled to be operational by 2027. This addition reflects a growing need to address security demands posed by expanded offshore infrastructure and an increased presence of non-NATO vessels in the area. Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder has underscored the critical role this vessel will play in enhancing Belgium’s naval response to the heightened operational demands, including participation in NATO activities, monitoring foreign military movements, and safeguarding economic assets in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Castor-class

With dimensions of 53.5 meters in length, 9.5 meters in beam, and a draft of 3.19 meters, the 455-ton vessels are purpose-built for coastal patrol duties.

The Castor-class vessels are powered by two MTU 16V4000M73L diesel engines, each delivering 2,880 kW (3,860 hp). This propulsion system enables a top speed of 21 knots, with an operational range of 2,800 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 16 knots, and an extended range of 4,500 nautical miles at 12 knots.

In terms of weaponry, these vessels are equipped with an FN Herstal Sea deFNder remote-controlled weapon station featuring a 12.7 mm M2HB-QCB heavy machine gun, providing effective security for a range of maritime operations.

Additional mounts for light machine guns afford further defensive capabilities. For boarding operations and search and rescue (SAR) missions, each vessel carries two Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs): a 9-meter RHIB launched from a stern ramp and a 7.5-meter RHIB deployable by davit, both capable of achieving speeds up to 37 knots. With a standard crew complement of 15, these vessels can accommodate up to 30 personnel when needed.

Socarenam

Socarenam, a distinguished French shipbuilding company founded in 1961, has been pivotal in modernizing the Belgian Navy's fleet through specialized vessels tailored for diverse maritime roles. Known for constructing robust and versatile ships ranging from 10 to over 80 meters, Socarenam has delivered more than 300 vessels, showcasing its dedication to quality and reliability in marine engineering.

Socarenam developed Ready Duty Ships (RDS) to support coastal operations and assist the state’s actions at sea. These 53-meter patrol boats, outfitted with fast intervention capabilities through both davit-launched and ramp-deployed boats, provide critical flexibility for the Belgian Navy. The vessels also feature a 12.7 mm remote machine gun and accommodations for up to 30 crew members.