Portugal to Build EU’s First Dedicated Drone Carrier, the NRP D. João II
Portugal is set to make history by constructing the European Union’s first purpose-built naval vessel designed primarily to operate unmanned systems. Named the NRP D. João II, this revolutionary drone carrier represents a strategic leap in modern maritime operations, blending defense, scientific research, and advanced robotics into a single, flexible platform.
A Break from Tradition: A Ship for the Robotic Age
Departing from the conventional aircraft carrier model, the NRP D. João II is a Multifunctional Naval Platform optimized for launching, recovering, and housing various drones. Its design prioritizes unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), surface drones, and underwater vehicles, allowing for rapid mission reconfiguration—sometimes within a week. Named after the 15th-century monarch who championed Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, the vessel symbolizes a new chapter in the nation’s maritime ambition.
Construction, Funding, and Timeline
The ship is being built by the Damen Group at its shipyard in Galati, Romania, with construction underway following a keel-laying in late 2024. Delivery to the Portuguese Navy is scheduled for the second half of 2026. The project’s total cost is approximately €132 million, with €94.5 million funded by the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility and the remainder covered by the Portuguese government.
Specifications and Modular Design
The 107.6-meter vessel will have a crew of around 48, with space for up to 42 scientists or specialists and temporary accommodation for 100-200 additional personnel. Its standout feature is modularity: instead of fixed armaments, the ship can be reconfigured for diverse roles, including:
Maritime Security & Surveillance: Border patrols and domain awareness.
Scientific Research: Oceanographic studies, environmental monitoring, and seabed mapping with onboard laboratories.
Emergency Response: Search-and-rescue and humanitarian missions.
Strategic Impact for Portugal and Europe
The NRP D. João II positions Portugal at the forefront of European naval innovation. By investing in unmanned systems, the Portuguese Navy offers a cost-effective model for mid-sized maritime forces seeking enhanced sea control and surveillance capabilities without the enormous expense of traditional aircraft carriers.
The project has already attracted interest from other European navies, aligning with broader EU goals for defense cooperation, technological sovereignty, and dual-use innovation. It exemplifies how autonomous systems can serve both security and civilian scientific purposes.
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The Road Ahead
As Portugal prepares to commission its groundbreaking drone carrier, the NRP D. João II is poised to become a blueprint for future naval forces. It demonstrates how adaptability, unmanned technology, and multi-role flexibility can redefine maritime power in the 21st century, influencing procurement strategies well beyond Europe’s shores.
