Egypt has commenced local production of its new PV43-M coastal defense vessels at Alexandria Shipyard in collaboration with German shipbuilder NVL Group. The project, launched in September 2025, is managed by NVL Egypt and involves the construction of ten 43-meter patrol ships equipped with advanced European weapons and surveillance systems. Designed for maritime protection, intelligence gathering, and infrastructure defense, the vessels mark a major enhancement of Egypt’s coastal security capabilities. The contract, awarded in 2023, emphasizes local production and knowledge transfer from NVL’s German facilities to strengthen Egypt’s indigenous shipbuilding expertise. The PV43-M program forms part of a broader national effort to increase self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing. It follows a series of naval modernization initiatives, including the acquisition of FREMM frigates from Italy, Gowind corvettes built with French support, and Type 209 submarines from Germany. The Egyptian Navy also operates two Mistral-class amphibious assault ships that serve as fleet flagships. NVL Egypt stated that the PV43-M program would enhance operational flexibility, create local employment, and support regional defense cooperation. The vessels’ modular design will allow for future integration of additional combat and surveillance systems. Once commissioned, the fleet will reinforce Egypt’s capacity to secure critical maritime infrastructure and participate in international maritime security operations in both the Mediterranean and Red Sea regions.
