Montenegro expresses interest in French offshore patrol vessels.

According to information published the Montenegrin MoD on April 4, 2024, Minister Krapović discussed with his French counterpart Sebastien Lecornu about the plans for strengthening the capabilities and modernization of the Montenegrin Navy, through the procurement of new patrol vessels. He also will have the opportunity to visit the Kership shipyard in Lorient, where he will discuss possible arrangements for future cooperation.
Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

French built patrol vessel ARA Bouchard. (Picture source: Argentine MoD)

The Montenegrin Navy's operational capabilities are geared towards ensuring maritime security, with a fleet that comprises various types of vessels for patrol, support, and training purposes.

Among its assets are patrol boats undergoing updates and conversions to enhance their operational readiness. The navy also utilizes transport and support vessels, including salvage tugs and a floating crane, to fulfill its logistical needs.

Training ships, such as the Jadran, play a important role in naval education, preparing personnel through practical sea training. Additionally, the fleet includes motor sailboats, diving boats, and inflatable boats dedicated to specific tasks like marine platoon operations.

Montenegro Armed Forces

The military equipment of Montenegro reflects a blend of inherited and imported systems, indicating the country's defense ties and historical shifts. Montenegro's Armed Forces, relatively small, have sourced their equipment through a mix of inheritance from the former Yugoslavia and acquisitions from abroad. Since 2010, notable contributions have come from Austria, Turkey, and the United States​.

The ground forces of Montenegro use a variety of weaponry, including rifles such as the Steyr AUG (Austria), G36 (Germany), and Heckler & Koch HK416 (Germany), alongside Yugoslav-era arms like the Zastava M70/M70A.

Special Forces units are equipped with advanced gear, including Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine guns (West Germany) and sniper rifles like the Heckler & Koch PSG1 (West Germany) and Zastava M93 Black Arrow (Yugoslavia).

Anti-tank, mortars, machine guns, and grenade launchers also form part of their arsenal, with both Yugoslav and German equipment in use. For mobility and logistics, Montenegro employs armored personnel carriers and utility vehicles from the United States, Austria, Germany, Turkey, and Japan.