At DIMDEX 2018, the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference currently held in Qatar, Italian shipbuilding group Fincantieri is showcasing for the first time the multi-role air defence corvettes for the Qatari Navy.
The future multi-role air defence corvette of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces. Fincantieri image.
Qatar confirmed in August 2017 its order for seven vessels from Fincantieri following the signing of a preliminary contract in June 2016. The deal consists in four air defence corvettes of over 100 meters in length, one amphibious vessel (LPD - Landing Platform Dock acting as mobile radar station for the corvettes), and two patrol vessels (OPV - Offshore Patrol Vessel).
Fincantieri is showcasing for the very first time a scale model of the future corvette on its stand at DIMDEX 2018
The corvette design selected by the Qatari Navy has a length of 107 meters, a maximum breadth of 14.70 meters, a draft of 4.20 meters for a full load displacement of 3250 tons.
Its maximum speed is set to be 28 knots, its range 3500 nautical miles (at 15 knots). The propulsion system will be CODAD type. It will have an endurance of 21 days.
The crew complement will be 98 sailors with accommodations for a total of 112 persons. The flight deck and hangar are sized for one NH90 helicopter.
A scale model of the corvette is also present on the Qatari Navy booth
In terms of weapon systems, the corvettes will be fitted with a 76mm main gun by Leonardo, 16x VLS cells for ASTER 30 surface to air missiles (by MBDA), two Marlins 30mm remote weapon stations (Leonardo), 8x Exocet MM40 Block III (MBDA) and RAM launcher (21 missiles) by Raytheon for short range air defense.
Leonardo is responsible for the integrated supply of the new naval units’ combat system (Athena), main radar system (Kronos) and on-board sensors and defence sub-systems, including the anti-torpedo protection system and the Thesan mine avoidance sonar.
A total of four Sylena Mk2 decoy launchers by Lacroix will protect the vessels against anti-ship missile threats.
These corvettes will become the backbone and the most potent surface combatants of the Qatari Navy fleet.
First steel cutting is set to take place in June 2018 while delivery of first of class vessel is expected in 2021.
These corvettes will become the backbone and the most potent surface combatants of the Qatari Navy fleet.
The contract also includes support services in Qatar for 15 years after the delivery of the vessels. All the units will be entirely built in Fincantieri Italian shipyards starting from 2018, ensuring 6 years of work and an important impact on the main Italian defense companies.
Fincantieri and the Qatari Navy are also showcasing for the first time the designs of the OPV and LPD. Stay tuned for Navy Recognition's coverage of these two new vessels.
