OCEA launches research vessel for Nigerian Navy

French shipbuilder OCEA launched a new hydrographic research vessel at its Les Sables d’Olonne facilities on Thursday, September 24.

The 60-metre vessel, which will be named NNS Lana, was ordered by the Nigerian Navy in 2018. In addition to performing hydrographic duties, it will also be used for logistical support, surveillance, emergency towing of disabled vessels, and fisheries enforcement patrols.

The vessel will have space for 50 people, a maximum speed of 14 knots, a range of 4,400 nautical miles at 12 knots, and an endurance of 20 days.

Equipment will include a multi-beam echosounder, a sidescan sonar, an onboard laboratory, and an eight-metre daughter craft for surveys along the coast and in shallow waters.

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