The Portuguese Navy has confirmed that Europe’s first naval carrier designed exclusively for unmanned systems is now taking shape in Portugal, marking a significant milestone in maritime innovation and defence capability.
The vessel, named NRPD João II, is being constructed by Dutch shipbuilder Damen and measures 108 metres in length, with a 94-metre flight deck dedicated to the launch and recovery of aerial drones. The ship is also equipped with a stern ramp for the deployment of surface and underwater unmanned vehicles, alongside a hangar for assembly, maintenance, and mission preparation.
Designed as a highly modular platform, the João II incorporates 18 container-sized mission modules. These can be rapidly reconfigured to support roles including hyperbaric treatment, medical and hospital facilities, or storage for more than 18 light vehicles and 10 boats. Mission systems and equipment can be swapped within a week, allowing the ship to transition swiftly between operational profiles.
“This approach allows the ship to maintain high functional flexibility, switching between different mission profiles without significant structural compromises,” said Portuguese Navy spokesperson Ricardo Sá Granja.
The standard crew complement consists of 48 naval personnel and 42 specialist operators and scientists, with emergency accommodation for up to 200 additional staff.
Built for endurance, the vessel is capable of 45 days of fully autonomous operations, reducing reliance on immediate logistical support.
Valued at approximately $US156 million, the NRPD João II is expected to achieve a top speed of 15.5 knots (29 kilometres or 18 miles per hour). The ship will be able to deploy multiple unmanned systems simultaneously, providing coordinated coverage across air, surface, and sub-surface domains.
In cooperation with local industry partners, the Portuguese Navy will be able to build certain unmanned systems on board, while international collaborators will contribute more advanced platforms to enhance operational capability.
The first NRPD João II is scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2026, with its debut expected to position Portugal at the forefront of unmanned naval operations in Europe.
Media release from the Portuguese Navy.