Fincantieri Launches UAE Patrol Boat

A second patrol boat for the United Arab Emirates navy has been launched by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.

The vessel, the Salahah, is of the Falaj2 class, a 606-ton stealth boat for offshore patrol. It is 182.7 feet long and about 29 feet in the beam. It can reach speeds of more than 20 knots.

The United Arab Emirates ordered three of the vessels.

"Fincantieri, after completing the first phase of the contracted program in 2010, which called for the delivery of the anti-submarine corvette "Abu Dhabi" and two "Saettia-Stealth" patrol boats, will provide a support and familiarization program for United Arab Emirates crews, together by Marinalles, before being transferred to their homeland," the Italian navy said in announcing the launch.

The vessel was launched in La Spezia. Italian and UAE military officers attended the ceremony as well as company officials.

Fincantieri noted the importance of the Middle East market, where it is partnered with Al Fattan Ship Industries and Melara Middle East in a joint venture company, Etihad Ship Building.

[via]