27 April 2021

Kuwait planning for new auxiliary support vessel

by Richard Scott

Kuwait is planning to acquire an auxiliary support vessel, using the US Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) as procurement agent under a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case.

In a request for information (RFI) released on 13 April NAVSEA said it was conducting market research for a suitable design for operation in the waters of the Kuwait territorial sea, the Gulf, the sea of Oman, and the Arabian Sea. Responses are sought by 13 May.

The Kuwait Naval Force’s uses the oil rig replenishment and accommodation ship Al-Dorrar (foreground) as an auxiliary transport vessel. (Kuwait Armed Forces)

According to a characteristics matrix released by NAVSEA, the Kuwait auxiliary support vessel requirement seeks a vessel 8–90 m in length, 15–18 m beam, and 5 m draft (threshold), with an endurance of 20 days, a range of 3,000 n miles, and a threshold 15 kt cruise speed (20 kt objective) at full load. The craft should be fully operational in Sea State 4 and survivable in conditions up to Sea State 6.

Specific capabilities include aviation facilities to support an EC725 Caracal helicopter; the ability to conduct alongside refuelling and replenishment while not making way; a 10-bed medical facility with the ability to perform minor operations; provision for a double lock recompression chamber and its 20 ft container; and the ability to launch and recover remotely-operated vehicles. The requirement also stipulates two 11m rigid-hull inflatable boats with underway launch-and-recovery system(s), and basic mechanical and electrical workshops to assist fleet vessels.

Accommodation is required for a ship’s company of up to 33. Additional accommodation and berthing should provide for 35 embarked marines and two guest senior officials.

Capacities include 700 m³ of diesel fuel, 60 m³ of aviation (helicopter) fuel, 300 m³

Kuwait is planning to acquire an auxiliary support vessel, using the US Naval Sea Systems Command (N...

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