The Portuguese Navy is pushing to acquire a third submarine as part of its priorities, according to Admiral Jorge Nobre de Sousa, Chief of the Naval Staff. In an interview with the Lusa news agency, Sousa emphasized the importance of a third submarine, citing its role in dissuasion. The Navy's priorities are outlined in the Military Programming Law, which is set to be reviewed by parliament this year. The law establishes public investment in equipment for the Armed Forces over a 12-year period.
The Military Programming Law review comes as the Navy is set to acquire new frigates, which will be financed through European loans from the European Security Action Instrument (SAFE). However, the acquisition of new helicopters for the frigates was not included in the deal, as they were recently modernized and are expected to remain operational until 2035. Sousa noted that this provides time to analyze market options and determine whether to maintain a manned or remotely operated helicopter model.
The potential threat to underwater cables that cross Portugal's sovereign area and are critical to global communications was also raised. Sousa acknowledged that Portugal does not have the full capacity to protect these cables and warned that it is unrealistic to assume they can be completely defended. He advocated for a more coordinated approach between government departments responsible for the issue, including Defense and Internal Affairs.
Sousa highlighted the complexities of protecting underwater cables and suggested that options such as installing sensors on the cables are being explored. The Navy is undertaking a range of acquisitions, including six Oceanic Patrol Vessels (NPOs), two logistic re-supply ships, and the D. João II drone carrier, which is being built in Romania and scheduled for delivery in April.
The D. João II drone carrier was conceptualized by Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo, Sousa's predecessor. Sousa addressed concerns that Portugal may not profit from potential sales of the vessel to other countries, explaining that the construction contract included a clause sharing future industrial property rights. He described this as the best possible deal under the circumstances.
The interview took place during the REPMUS exercise, an international event focused on robotics and unmanned vehicles, which drew representatives from 36 navies, companies, and universities. Sousa revealed that this year's exercise was restructured to allow the Portuguese Navy to derive greater benefit from it, citing the development of a 5G network bubble as an example.
Sousa also discussed the issue of personnel losses within the Navy, which currently stands at 6,370 military personnel, 30% below authorized levels. While the trend of personnel leaving the Navy has decreased, Sousa warned that the branch continues to lose experienced personnel.
Key points
- Portuguese Navy seeks third submarine for dissuasion and protection of underwater cables.
- Military Programming Law to be reviewed by parliament this year.
- Navy undertook several acquisitions, including six Oceanic Patrol Vessels and a drone carrier.
