Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
3 min of reading 
1 comment 
Portuguese Company Fundilusa Manufactures Propellers for the New Navy Ship Expected to Debut in 2026.
The naval industry in Portugal is gaining international recognition with Fundilusa – Portuguese Foundries Lda, based in Vila Nova de Cerveira, which is producing the propellers for the NRP D. João II, the newest ship of the Portuguese Navy, whose entry into operation is scheduled for 2026.
The project is part of the modernization plan for the Armed Forces and represents a strategic advancement in Portugal’s defense and maritime operational capabilities.
Successful Tests Mark a Critical Phase of Construction
On May 27th, the factory testing of the propellers was carried out, an essential step in the naval construction process.
-
Europe is trying to create an ammonia-powered marine engine without auxiliary fuel, which could unlock the race for giant emission-free ships. The technology aims to eliminate one of the biggest obstacles to clean maritime propulsion.
-
A 4,500-ton frigate with just over 100 crew members, state-of-the-art radar, and cruise missiles is being touted as the new standard of naval warfare in the 21st century.
-
The first commercial hydrogen-powered ferry enters operation in the U.S., eliminates the use of diesel, uses fuel cells to generate clean energy on board, and transforms San Francisco Bay into a landmark of the new era of emission-free navigation.
-
With a length of 121 meters and four rigid sails of 36 meters that automatically rotate to capture the wind, Canopée is the world’s first hybrid industrial cargo ship powered by wind, used to transport rockets and reduce fuel consumption by up to 30% on transoceanic routes.
The event was attended by representatives from Damen, the company responsible for the ship’s design, the General Director of Fundilusa, Pablo González, and Captain-Lieutenant Luís Matos Filipe from the Portuguese Navy’s Monitoring and Inspection Team.
The technical inspection of the propellers marks an important milestone in the production schedule and certifies the precision and quality of the components developed on national soil.
NRP D. João II Will Be a Multifunctional Ship with Cutting-Edge Technology
The new ship of the Navy, named NRP D. João II, is being developed with a focus on versatility and modernity, as part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR).
The vessel integrates the strategic concept of the Atlantic Defense Operations Center and the Multifunctional Naval Platform, playing a fundamental role in the defense and management of waters under Portuguese jurisdiction.
With cutting-edge technology, the ship will have the capability to operate in maritime surveillance, scientific research, emergency and disaster support, as well as technological experimentation missions.
Resources and Capabilities of the New Ship
NRP D. João II will feature a robust and multi-faceted infrastructure. Key highlights include:
- Laboratories for scientific and oceanographic research
- Medical ward and onboard medical systems
- Equipment for handling cargo and vehicles
- Platform for operating helicopters, drones, and surface and underwater vessels
These resources will enable the ship to operate effectively on multiple fronts, reinforcing the Navy’s presence in the Atlantic and ensuring support for civil and military operations.
Strategic Contribution to Portugal’s Maritime Sovereignty
The incorporation of NRP D. João II into the naval force represents a significant operational leap for the Portuguese Navy, strengthening the country’s sovereignty and response capability in crisis, security, and research scenarios.
The collaboration between Fundilusa and Damen highlights the importance of the national industry in the construction of advanced naval assets.
With a debut scheduled for 2026, the ship promises to place Portugal at the forefront of international maritime operations.
Fundilusa: Portuguese Excellence in Naval Propulsion
Founded in 1989, Fundilusa is now a reference in the casting and machining of parts for maritime propulsion, specializing in propellers, blades, and other naval components.
The company employs around 200 professionals and is internationally recognized for the quality, reliability, and precision of its products, being a strategic partner of various shipyards and naval forces worldwide.
According to Fundilusa itself, its commitment to innovation and technical rigor is one of the pillars that enable its participation in high-complexity naval projects, such as that of NRP D. João II.
Parabéns à Fundilusa, têm uma grande responsabilidade.