Dearsan Shipyard commences construction of two Fast Attack Crafts for Qatar Navy
Qatar Navy Enhances Capabilities with New Fast Attack Crafts
Dearsan Shipyard has officially commenced the construction of two advanced Guided Missile Fast Attack Crafts for the Qatar Navy. This significant development comes after a contract was signed earlier this year during the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition. The crafts are designed to bolster Qatar’s naval capabilities and ensure security in its territorial waters.
Details of the Fast Attack Crafts
The new crafts measure 50.76 meters in length and 9.53 meters in width, with a draft of 2.10 meters. They are engineered to achieve impressive speeds of up to 36 knots and have a range of 1,000 nautical miles. These specifications make them well-suited for operations in the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. The primary roles of these vessels include surface and air defense warfare, asymmetric warfare, and electronic warfare, all crucial for maintaining security in Qatar’s maritime domain.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the crafts will feature surface-guided missiles, a 40mm cannon, anti-air guided missiles, and 12.7mm stabilised and manual machine guns. This array of armaments will enable the Qatar Navy to effectively respond to various threats, enhancing its operational readiness. Additionally, the crafts will serve secondary roles such as patrolling, anti-piracy operations, and search and rescue missions, further expanding their utility in the region.
The keel-laying ceremony was attended by Major General Abdullah Hassan Al Sulaiti, the commander of the Qatar Navy, along with other dignitaries. This event marks a pivotal moment in Qatar’s naval modernization efforts, showcasing the nation’s commitment to enhancing its maritime defense capabilities.
Broader Implications for Qatar’s Naval Strategy
The introduction of these fast attack crafts is part of a broader strategy by the Qatar Navy to modernize its fleet and improve its operational capabilities. The Qatari government has been investing heavily in defense and security, particularly in maritime assets, to safeguard its interests in the region. With increasing geopolitical tensions and maritime threats, having a robust naval presence is essential for Qatar.
Dearsan Shipyard’s commitment to delivering advanced technology ships aligns with Qatar’s vision of a modern and capable navy. The company has previously demonstrated its expertise by constructing high-endurance offshore patrol vessels for the Nigerian Navy. This experience positions Dearsan well to meet the specific needs of the Qatar Navy, ensuring that the new crafts will be equipped with the latest advancements in naval technology.
As the construction of these crafts progresses, it is expected that they will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Qatar Navy. This development not only strengthens Qatar’s defense posture but also contributes to regional stability by ensuring that the navy can effectively respond to various maritime challenges.
