Oman order underlines VT pedigree
VT Shipbuilding (Stand 2015, UK Pavilion) has reaffirmed its strong presence in the Gulf region by last month securing a £400m contract to build three new helicopter-capable Ocean Patrol Vessels (OPVs) for the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO).
Being procured under Project Khareef, the three ships will be used to patrol Oman’s expansive exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The first-of-class is due for handover in early 2010, with the subsequent ships to follow at six-month intervals. All three will be built at VT’s ship production facility in Portsmouth.
At just less than 100m in length, the OPV design selected by the RNO is derived from VT’s generic Venture ocean-capable corvette. “The new design, in addition to the River class OPVs recently built by VT for the UK Royal Navy, provides us with a versatile series of ships to carry out EEZ duties and related activities,” VT’s export sales director, Peter Stirk, told the IDEX Show Daily.
The Oman ships will be powered by two MTU diesel engines with additional slow speed electric drive – a vital aspect in ensuring lowest costs of ownership through life, according to Stirk.
“We have also put a significant emphasis on seakeeping,” he added. “The design incorporates an active fin stabilisation system, to enhance the effectiveness of crew and ship systems, and a slim, bulbous bow, which also delivers improved fuel economy.”
The Khareef ships will feature a state-of-the-art combat management system, a 3D surveillance radar, a radar/electrooptical fire control system and various weapon fits.
Further capability will be offered by hangar and flight deck facilities for a helicopter, with provision for a full suite of landing aids and AVTUR fuelling.
VT, through its small craft subsidiary VT Halmatic, is now turning its attention to Oman’s requirement for new 11m inshore patrol craft. Bids are due in at the end of March.“As part of our proposal, we are looking at opportunities for in-country investment," said Stirk.“One possibility is the development of a GRP facility for small-boat manufacture.”
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