Portugal naval procurement of FREMM EVO frigates

Portugal has agreed to a 3.9 billion euro deal to acquire three FREMM EVO frigates from the Italian naval group Fincantieri. Funded through the SAFE (Safe Action for Europe) instrument, the procurement aims to modernize the Portuguese Navy, which currently operates several vessels dating back to 1991. The new ships are designed for maritime surveillance, anti-aircraft, and anti-submarine defense, with deliveries expected between 2029 and 2030.

The 144-meter frigates will utilize a CODLAG propulsion system, providing a maximum speed of approximately 27 knots and an operational range of 6,000 nautical miles. The agreement includes technology transfer and a 30-year logistical and operational management model, which accounts for the first major maintenance cycle scheduled around 2035. While the initial package does not include helicopters—following the modernization of the existing Lynx Mk95 fleet, which has an extended operational lifespan until 2035—the new vessels are capable of operating with organic helicopters or drones.

Following the announcement, the Portuguese Ministry of Defense and the company NTGroup issued clarifications regarding allegations of potential commissions and the role of intermediaries in the deal. The Ministry of Defense stated that intergovernmental negotiations were conducted directly between the Portuguese and Italian states through their respective armament directorates, without political intervention or the involvement of intermediaries. NTGroup clarified that while it has promoted Fincantieri’s naval solutions in Portugal since 2020, it was not part of the formal intergovernmental negotiation team and denied requesting any payment from the Portuguese state.