NAVDEX 2023: UAE Navy displays Al Quwaisat class LST Al Quwaisat.

The United Arab Emirates Navy displayed the Al Ghuweisat class LST during the Defense Exhibition NAVDEX which took place from February 20 to 24 at ADNEC.

Al Quwaisat class LST Al Quwaisat, Zayed port. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The Al-Quwaisat class is a series of Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs) used by the United Arab Emirates Navy. These ships were constructed by the Malaysian company Shin Yang, based on their 80-meter LST design.

The ships have a displacement of 2,046 tons and are 80 meters long, 16.8 meters wide, and have a draft of 4 meters. They are powered by two Cummins KTA50-M2 engines and four Cummins KTA19-D (M1) engines, which provide a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. The ships have a range of 2,500 nautical miles and can remain at sea for up to 21 days.

The Al-Quwaisat class LSTs have a capacity to carry cargo, marine troops, and tanks. They have a complement of 106 personnel and are armed with 12.7 mm Browning M2HB machine guns for self-defense. The ships are also equipped with a helicopter landing platform to support airborne operations.