Construction has begun on a new generation maritime affairs patrol vessel featuring wind-assisted propulsion technology, following a steel cutting ceremony at the Socarenam shipyard in Boulogne-sur-Mer on September 18.

The vessel, designated as a New Generation Maritime Affairs Patrol Vessel (PAM), represents a transition from design phase to active construction after France's Mauric won the tender in December 2024. The project aims to combine operational performance with environmental innovation through hybrid propulsion systems.

Mauric's team of naval architects and marine engineers completed the detailed arrangement study, including optimization of sail positioning and stabilization systems. The design phase incorporated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) optimization of the bulbous bow to enhance hydrodynamic performance and establish an active trim control system.

CFD studies confirm a hybrid cruising speed of 10 knots with maximum speed exceeding 18 knots. The configuration is designed to ensure energy efficiency and reduced environmental footprint.

Construction will follow an eight-module assembly sequence, with the first block located in the forward section of the hull. The steel cutting ceremony marks the beginning of fabrication, maintaining the construction schedule for delivery planned in the second half of 2027.

The 53.70-metre vessel will feature a steel hull with aluminium superstructure and diesel-electric hybrid system with wind-assisted propulsion. Technical specifications include accommodation for a crew of 16 persons plus four special forces personnel, with 12-day autonomy and capability for up to 200 days at sea annually.

Maximum speed is rated at 17 knots at 85% maximum continuous rating, with electric propulsion providing 10 knots. The vessel will have an endurance of 3,600 nautical miles at 12 knots and carry two 6.50-metre semi-rigid boats capable of 35 knots.

Primary operations will focus on the Bay of Biscay, with offshore capability for extended missions. The vessel's mission profile includes protection of national interests, maritime fisheries surveillance, environmental regulations compliance, pollution monitoring, search and rescue operations, and public service missions representing the French Maritime Affairs Administration.