Germany-based NVL Group has unveiled its multi-purpose ship design to replace the Type 404 supply ships in German Navy service. NVL Group's NTV-130 is larger in displacement compared to Type 404 and packs a significantly larger internal volume.
According to Naval News, the 14000-ton ship can perform logistics support, transport, command & control, and minelaying missions. The vessel will have hangars for RHIB boats/USVs and space for up to 120 20-ft containers. SH Defence offers the Cube modular container solutions to support the ship's multi-mission capability.
Cube series of containers can allow a ship to carry off-board weapons or sensors as long as they fit in the modules. Another important difference in NVL Group's design is the considerable self-defence firepower with short-range air defence missile launchers and what appears to be Millennium 35 mm CIWS.
Turkiye is considering a similar concept with its DIMDEG logistic support ships with command & control capability, as well as manned-unmanned teaming with USV platforms thanks to multiple boat hangars of sufficient size.
Another multi-role design that is steered towards combat duties is Steller Systems' Fearless-class design for the U.K.'s multi-role ship requirement. Being a cross-over of an LPD and a frigate, the ship will be mainly used for force projection with the capability to deploy amphibious craft and attack boats/USVs. Patrol, anti-surface warfare, and ISR are also possible with different load configurations.
