Naval Vessels Lürssen (NVL) of Germany has initiated sea trials for the Bulgarian Navy’s first multipurpose modular patrol vessel (MMPV), the Hrabri.
Named Brave, the Hrabri is undergoing testing in Varna Bay and designated zones in the Black Sea, where its systems and overall performance are being evaluated ahead of planned commissioning in late 2025.
The ship’s construction began with a steel-cutting ceremony in December 2021, followed by keel laying in June 2022, conducted with Bulgarian partner MTG Dolphin in Varna.
The vessel was launched from dry dock in August 2023, moving into the outfitting stage. Since then, integration of weapons, sensors, and onboard systems has progressed, according to the Ministry of Defence.
The second ship in the program, Smeli (Courageous), is currently under construction and will operate alongside Hrabri to counter air, land, surface, and underwater threats, including missions with NATO and the EU.
MMPV Capabilities
The Hrabri and Smeli are built on the MMPV 90 platform from NVL, featuring a length of 90 meters (295 feet) and a 14-meter (46-foot) beam.
They are designed for crews of up to 70 personnel and can be equipped with a 76-millimeter main gun, a 35-millimeter CIWS, anti-ship and anti-air missiles, and torpedo systems.
Each vessel includes space for a maritime helicopter or large UAV, as well as two rigid-hull inflatable boats.
Powered by twin diesel engines generating roughly 8,900 horsepower each, the ships offer a range of 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 kilometers/3,452 miles) and top speeds above 20 knots (37 kilometers/23 miles per hour).
