Fincantieri
shipyard at Muggiano recently launched the “Ganthoot”, the
first of two stealth patrol vessels included in the “Falaj 2”
program in progress for the United Arab Emirates Navy who ordered them
in 2010. The ship, whose name comes from a geographical area in the
Emirates in the neighbourhood of Abu Dhabi, will be delivered in the
last half of 2012.
The launch ceremony, which was attended by the Deputy Commander of the
Emirate Naval Forces, His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan,
the Italian head of Fincantieri’s Naval Business Unit, Angelo
Fusco, the Commander-in-Chief of Maridipart La Spezia, Admiral Andrea
Campregher and representatives from the shipyard’s management,
started with the customary recital of the Koran and, following the official
speeches, the traditional breaking of the bottle. |
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Capable surpassing 20 knots, the “Falaj 2”
program patrol vessels are 55 metres long with a beam of 8.60 metres
and can accommodate a crew of 28. However, what makes this ship special
is her particular geometry thanks to which it is difficult to pick her
up on radar (stealth).
Further features of these ships include their high level of flexibility
which enables them to carry out a range of different mission types –
from patrol and surveillance to defence from air and surface attacks
- both in national and international waters, and top living and safety
standards.
The contract provides the Emirate Navy with an option for another two
sister vessels as well as technology transfer to a local shipyard for
the construction of additional sister vessels.
Recognising the strategic importance of the Middle East market and its
strong, fruitful partnership with the UAE, Fincantieri intends to consolidate
the company Etihad Ship Building. Set up as a joint venture with Al
Fattan Ship Industries and Melara Middle East - both represented at
the ceremony - ESB works in the field of the design, construction and
sale of different types of civilian and military craft in addition to
carrying out maintenance and refitting in loco.
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