UAE company the EDGE Group, via its Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) division, launched a new offshore patrol vessel (OPV) in a ceremony on Tuesday, January 14.
The OPV is the lead ship of the Falaj 3-class, four examples of which will be built by ADSB for the UAE Navy. Singapore-based ST Engineering is providing the basic, detail design, and production design of the vessels as well as technical assistance.
Upon completion, the vessel will have an LOA of 60 metres, a moulded beam of 9.5 metres, a draught of 2.6 metres, a depth of 4.45 metres, and four main engines driving propellers to deliver speeds in excess of 26 knots. It will be capable of operating in both littoral and blue waters.
The OPV will be fitted with an advanced combat management system, sensors, and weapons for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare. The vessel will also be built with CBRN protection and will comply with International Classification Society Naval Rules and US Navy Stability Requirements for ship survivability.