French Shipyard OCEA Launched the OPV 190 MKII "Fouladou" for the Navy of Senegal.

According to OCEA, the waters of the countries of West Africa have become one of the most dangerous maritime areas of the world. Maritime security is a real regional issue that threatens trade in the short term, and regional stability in the long term, compromising the development of this area. States in the region are well aware of the problem and are taking steps to counter this phenomenon. OCEA, listening to the market, aims to offer modern, efficient and affordable ships and services,

Named "Fouladou" (after an historical region in Senegal), the vessel is intended to ensure all "state action at sea" missions as well as naval defense missions in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):
· Maritime patrol and policing
· Monitoring of fisheries and fight against illegal fishing
· Fight against trafficking
· Search and Rescue
· Fight against marine pollution
· Multilateral exercise at sea

To meet the operational needs of this wide spectrum of missions, the OPV 190 MKII offers the following features and performances:
· Excellent seakeeping
· Ability to operate at reduced speed while maintaining very good maneuverability
· Speed adapted to pursuit and interception
· Endurance to ensure extended presence
· Stern ramp to launch and recover 2 RHIBs
· Detention cell
· Diver facilities
· Ability to conduct vertical replenishment (VERTREP) with winching area
· Surveillance, identification and classification systems
· Operations Room (CIC)

OCEA OPV 190 MKII main specifications:
Length overall: 58 meters
Width: 9.40 meters
Endurance: 3 weeks
Maximum speed: 24 knots
Crew: 24 sailors (+ accomodations for 32 passengers)

The deal with the navy of Senegal also includes support services (training, maintainance and on site technical services) as well as financing services.