On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, PGZ Stocznia Wojenna handed over the Project 207P (Gardno-class) minesweeper ORP Drużno (pennant number 641) to the Polish Navy following the completion of a dockyard mid-life repair carried out under a contract signed on August 22, 2024 – three weeks ahead of the planned January 30 deadline. The vessel, which is part of the 12th Wolin Minesweeper Squadron, is ready to return to full operational status.
Photo: PGZ Stocznia Wojenna
“Today’s early handover of the vessel is the result of efficient work organization and the commitment of the entire project team. The completed scope included both standard repair work and the expansion of the ship’s operational capabilities,” said Karol Denc, project manager for the ORP Drużno overhaul at PGZ Stocznia Wojenna.
ORP Drużno is a vessel of significant importance to Poland’s mine countermeasures forces. In 2017–2019, the ship underwent a comprehensive modernization at Stocznia Remontowa Nauta, which included the replacement of the entire propulsion plant with modern MTU engines and generator sets. The vessel was subsequently equipped with the Ukwiał and Głuptak underwater vehicles, enabling her participation in NATO’s Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG-1).
The current dockyard mid-life repair comprised a wide range of work aimed at restoring and improving the ship’s technical parameters. This included comprehensive hull maintenance with laminating work, as well as an extensive overhaul of the propulsion system covering shaft lines, propellers, and bearings, together with complex alignment procedures. The main MTU propulsion engines and auxiliary generator sets underwent thorough inspections, including software updates. The cooling system was upgraded through the installation of additional sea chests.
Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening the ship’s mine countermeasures capabilities. The ST400A sweeping system and its control panels were modified, the vessel was fitted with a modern ammunition handling crane, and a specialized magazine for storing TOCZEK explosive charges was installed, complete with a NOVEC fire-suppression system. Repairs were also carried out on the sonar station and deck equipment used for mine-sweeping operations.
The scope of work also included expanding communication and operational capabilities. The ship received a workboat for servicing underwater vehicles, a maritime VSAT satellite terminal, and the MILNET-Z/I classified information processing network. Alarm systems and video surveillance were also upgraded.
In addition, a comprehensive refurbishment of living quarters, sanitary facilities, the galley, and air-conditioning and ventilation systems was completed, ensuring proper working and living conditions for the crew on board.
ORP Drużno is now ready to return to operational service within the structure of the 8th Coastal Defence Flotilla.
