Fincantieri delivers 'Abu Dhabi' ASW corvette and 'Ghantut' FALAJ2 patrol vessel for United Arab Emirates Navy
The delivery ceremony of two vessels for the United Arab Emirates Navy was held last week at the Fincantieri shipyard in Muggiano (La Spezia). These were an 'Abu Dhabi' class corvette, launched in February 2011, and the 'Ghantut' patrol vessel, launched at the same yard in January 2012.
In the presence of key UAE Navy, Italian Navy and Fincantieri representatives, the ceremony began with the characteristic recitation of the Qur'an in accordance with the dictates of Islam.
According to Fincantieri, "both vessels stand out for their high level of flexibility in being able to carry out different types of mission in national and international waters (from patrol and surveillance, to defence against air and surface threats and attack against both land and sea targets), as well as for their high standards of accommodation and safety."
"As evidence of the strategic importance of the Middle East market and the strong and fruitful partnership initiated with the Emirates, Fincantieri has established Etihad Ship Building in Abu Dhabi as a joint venture with Al Fattan Ship Industries and Melara Middle East," Fincantieri continued in a statement.
"The purpose of the company, which is already operational, is to design, construct and sell both civilian and military ships, as well as carry out maintenance and refitting.
"In fact, now more than ever, securing foreign orders means ships being built in local shipyards. It is therefore necessary to be suitably equipped to ensure that customers obtain quality and rapid delivery."