The First High Seas Patrol Vessel Arrives in DR Congo for Maritime Security
The Vice Prime Minister, Minister of National Defense and Veterans Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita recently presided over the baptism and commissioning ceremony of the High Seas Patrol Vessel PHM-142, christened “PEACEFUL ALTERNANCE OF JANUARY 24, 2019”. This momentous event took place on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the port of Boma. Among the distinguished guests in attendance were the Deputy Chief of General Staff of the FARDC in charge of operations and intelligence Lieutenant-General Jacques Ychaligonza Nduru, Admiral Kuyandi E. Lukombo, and the Vice-Governor of Kongo Central, Ntela Prosper.
During the ceremony, the Ministry of National Defense’s communication cell reported that Vice Prime Minister Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita handed over the national flag, the ensign, and the war flame to the Deputy Chief of General Staff of the FARDC. These symbolic items were then passed on to the ship’s commander to be hoisted on the ship’s masts.
Addressing the audience on behalf of the Republic’s government, Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita expressed gratitude to President Felix Tshisekedi for facilitating the acquisition of this warship. The vessel is intended to monitor the shores and deter naval threats from neighboring countries. The government official also announced upcoming acquisitions to bolster the FARDC’s capabilities. “This is yet another opportunity to thank His Excellency President Felix Tshisekedi for enabling the procurement of this naval unit to ensure the surveillance of our coast and deter intimidation from our neighbors. These patrol vessels, the second-largest unit of the naval force, must now patrol our maritime borders and address defense and security challenges in this crucial maritime route. With the approval received from the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister, I will work towards acquiring another unit very soon. I assure you that the crew will be well taken care of, and all necessary measures will be put in place for the smooth operation of the Peaceful Alternance of January 24, 2019,” reassured the Vice Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense and Veterans.
Furthermore, Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita elaborated on the various missions of the naval force. According to him, prioritizing the naval force allows the country to effectively combat illegal fishing, human trafficking, and other illicit activities. “The naval force has several missions, with the main one being to defend the territorial waters, including maritime, riverine, lacustrine, and coastal regions, to ensure the free use of national activities and deny access to enemy forces. Its missions encompass coastal surveillance and combating illicit activities such as illegal fishing, smuggling, piracy, human trafficking, maritime pollution, and contributing to peacekeeping in the sub-region. To fulfill these missions, the naval force must have adequate resources and contribute to the defense of territorial integrity,” emphasized the Vice Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense and Veterans.
Additionally, Admiral Kuyandi urged the crew members to defend the nation tirelessly and use the warship judiciously. According to the Ministry of Defense’s communication cell, this High Seas Patrol Vessel is a defense weapon for the territorial integrity of the DRC. Baptized PEACEFUL ALTERNANCE OF JANUARY 24, 2019, with the call sign P142, it complies with the organic law No. 12/012 on the organization and operation of the FARDC, which assigns multiple missions to the naval force, primarily defending the nation’s territorial waters.
This acquisition for the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo comes at a critical time, marked by Rwandan aggression through the M23 rebellion. A significant portion of Congolese waters, particularly Lake Kivu, is under the control of the M23 rebellion supported by Rwanda. This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to safeguard the territory through waterways.
In conclusion, the arrival of the High Seas Patrol Vessel in DR Congo signifies a significant step towards enhancing maritime security and protecting the nation’s borders. The deployment of this vessel underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s interests and ensuring peace and stability in the region. The continued support and investment in the naval force are crucial for defending the DRC’s sovereignty and combating transnational threats effectively.