Montenegro and France are strengthening their military cooperation in the Balkan region. The country has just placed an order for two sea patrol vessels to improve its operational activity in this strategic region.
Montenegro places order for maritime patrol boats from France
Montenegro, a small Balkan nation, announces a strengthening of its maritime security. Indeed, the country has just ordered two OPV 60M high seas patrol boats from the French shipbuilder Kership, based in Concarneau. This acquisition illustrates not only the intensification of Franco-Montenegrin relations in the field of defense, but above all the development of the maritime capabilities of Montenegro, an increasingly strategic region.
During the last Euronaval exhibition, an international meeting for naval defense players, Montenegro signed a contract with Kership, formalizing the acquisition of two OPV 60M. These patrol boats, designed for surveillance and security missions at sea, will allow the Montenegrin navy to strengthen its operational capacity to fight against trafficking and illegal fishing. Moreover, the two countries signed increased collaboration a few months ago.
The agreement includes substantial technical support from the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), the French institution in charge of military equipment. By supervising the progress and ensuring quality control of the vessels, the DGA directly contributes to ensuring that the OPV 60Ms meet the demanding standards in force in France. This support, provided via a technical arrangement, strengthens trust between the two States.
The profile of the OPV 60M: versatile and innovative patrol boats
The OPV 60M, or 60-meter Offshore Patrol Vessels, are new generation patrol vessels designed for a multitude of missions on the high seas. Manufactured by Kership, a major player in the French naval industry, these vessels are capable of carrying out missions maritime policing, the fight against illegal trafficking, and even environmental surveillance. Equipped with great operational autonomy, they are particularly adapted to the needs of Montenegro, which monitors its entire maritime zone in the Adriatic Sea.
These patrol boats are distinguished by their modern equipment, including autonomous boats and reconnaissance drones, increasing their capacity to cover large maritime areas. Thanks to these innovations, the OPV 60M offers unparalleled flexibility for the transport and deployment of special forces. This therefore meets the need for rapid and diversified interventions. By integrating these cutting-edge technologies, Montenegro is showing a clear desire to modernize its fleet and have effective means to ensure its maritime sovereignty.
Finally, for France, this agreement also represents an opportunity to consolidate its presence in Eastern Europe, a strategic region in terms of security and stability. By providing quality ships to its allies, France actively contributes to European security, while promoting its industrial know-how.
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