Portugal Modernizes Naval Arsenal with Harpoon Block II Missile Kits.

According to information published by the Portuguese government on November 14, 2024, the Portuguese Navy has initiated a strategic acquisition of eight Harpoon Block II conversion kits, authorized by Rear Admiral António Fernando dos Santos Rodrigues Mateus, Director of Ships, as part of Portugal's participation in the Joint Executive Committee (JEC) Harpoon consortium.
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Portuguese Navy's Karel Doorman-class frigate NRP Bartolomeu Dias. (Picture source: Portuguese MoD)

Portugal is a member of the JEC Harpoon consortium alongside Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Greece, and the Netherlands. This consortium fosters cooperation in maintaining the Harpoon missile systems, including access to an intermediate-level maintenance facility in the Netherlands and the establishment of a Common Pool of Spares (CPOS). The collaborative framework enhances interoperability and cost-efficiency for participating nations.

The Portuguese Navy currently operates Harpoon Block I missiles (RGM-84D) launched from Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias-class frigates. Initially, these frigates were equipped with HSCLCS 9/10 launch systems, compatible only with Block I configurations. However, during the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) program of the Bartolomeu Dias-class frigates, the launch systems were upgraded to the HSCLCS F12 version, enabling compatibility with the advanced Block II (RGM-84L) missiles.

During recent JEC Harpoon consortium meetings, the Netherlands announced its intention to sell unused Block II Harpoon conversion kits. These kits, in "Condition Code A1" status—serviceable and ready for immediate use—were initially procured from Boeing but never installed by the Dutch Navy. Portugal seized this opportunity to modernize its arsenal, ensuring its missile systems align with NATO standards and emerging operational requirements.

The integration of Block II Harpoon kits will significantly enhance the Portuguese Navy's anti-ship warfare capabilities. The Block II configuration offers improved targeting precision, a greater range, and better performance against land-based targets, in addition to its traditional maritime strike role.

Bartolomeu Dias-class frigates

The Bartolomeu Dias-class frigates are a pair of versatile warships in the Portuguese Navy, originally constructed as part of the Karel Doorman-class for the Royal Netherlands Navy.

These ships were acquired by Portugal in the late 2000s and renamed to honor prominent Portuguese explorers. Built by the Koninklijke Schelde Groep in Vlissingen, Netherlands, the class was designed to engage in a range of operations, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare. With a displacement of approximately 3,320 tons and powered by a combined diesel or gas (CODOG) propulsion system, these frigates can reach speeds of up to 30 knots.

In 2006, Portugal purchased two of these vessels, formerly known as HNLMS Van Nes and HNLMS Van Galen. These ships were re-commissioned into the Portuguese Navy as NRP Bartolomeu Dias (F333) and NRP Dom Francisco de Almeida (F334) in 2009 and 2010, respectively.

To maintain their relevance in modern naval operations, Portugal initiated a mid-life upgrade (MLU) program for these frigates. In 2021, NRP Bartolomeu Dias completed its upgrades in the Netherlands, which enhanced its combat systems, sensors, and extended its operational lifespan.