On April 2, 2026, French shipbuilder SOCARENAM launched the Castor-class coastal patrol vessel BNS Vega (P-903) for the Belgian Navy. This is the third ship-in-class after Castor and Pollux, launched about a decade earlier. After launch, the vessel was floated out of the dry dock to commence the dockside fitting-out phase. During this stage, construction of the hull, the aluminum superstructure, and various mechanical and structural components is completed. Major propulsion elements, including the engines, gearboxes, and propeller shafts, are already installed on board. The decision to commission a third patrol vessel was approved in early 2024 during the tenure of then Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder. My story for Naval News, here.
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