Egypt has begun construction of a new class of coastal protection vessels, the PV43-M, in partnership with German shipbuilder NVL Group. The project, initiated in September at Alexandria Shipyard, represents a milestone in Egypt’s naval modernization and shipbuilding independence. Managed by NVL Egypt, a subsidiary of NVL Group, the program calls for the production of ten 43-meter vessels featuring European-designed weapon and sensor systems. These ships are designed for maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, and infrastructure protection along Egypt’s extensive coastline. Awarded in 2023, the PV43-M program is the first of its kind to be fully constructed in Egypt with technology transfer from NVL’s German headquarters. The initiative aims to strengthen Egypt’s defense industrial base through local workforce training and capability development. The vessels will contribute to maritime security operations in the Red Sea and Mediterranean regions. Egypt’s collaboration with NVL builds upon previous acquisitions and domestic production programs, including the FREMM frigates Al-Galala and Bernice from Italy’s Fincantieri, and the locally assembled Gowind 2500 corvettes developed with France’s Naval Group. The Egyptian Navy has also expanded its submarine fleet with Type 209/1400 models from thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and operates Mistral-class helicopter carriers obtained from France. The PV43-M program reflects Egypt’s long-term goal to expand domestic shipbuilding capacity while modernizing its fleet for coastal defense and international cooperation missions.
