Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) plans to have a total of three naval defence and maritime security vessels on display at the upcoming Naval Defence Exhibition (Navdex) 2013 in Abu Dhabi.

As lead sponsor of Navdex, ADSB will also feature a 120 sq m stand displaying the organization’s broader service and refit offerings.

“ADSB’s manufacturing, repair and re-fit capabilities are fast establishing Abu Dhabi as a regional hub in the naval defence industry,” said Ian Pike, acting CEO.

“From our base in Abu Dhabi, ADSB successfully provides products and related services to defence decision makers across the GCC and beyond. Navdex 2013 is key in helping us reach out to our existing clients, build relationships with new ones and discuss developments in this fast moving industry.”

ADSB vessels on display at Navdex this year include the MRTP16 High-Speed Interceptor, 27m Ghannatha Class Missile Boat and 72m Baynunah Corvette. Built from high-tech composite materials including kevlar and carbon fibre, the 26 tonne high-speed interceptors reach speeds in excess of 65 knots.

They are powered by MTU engines driving Arneson Surface Drives, have a crew of 5 and are used for quick response missions.

Manufactured in marine grade aluminium alloy, the 45 tonne Ghannatha Class Missile Boats reach speeds in excess of 40 knots. Powered by MTU engines and Rolls Royce Waterjet propulsors, the vessel can be offered in various configurations as a fast troop carrier, mortar boat, gun boat and missile boat.

The largest Abu Dhabi-built vessel on display at Navdex will be the 72m Baynunah Corvette. Designed in conjunction with ADSB’s strategic partner CMN of France, these vessels represent the very latest in naval capability.

They are manufactured in steel (hull) and aluminium alloy (superstructure) and have a maximum speed of 30 knots thanks to a quad MTU engine installation and triple Rolls Royce waterjet configuration.

The corvette is also fitted with a plethora of weapons systems including three types of missiles and two types of guns.  It is fitted with the very latest technology sensors and communications suites.  The vessel is also capable of handling a five tonne naval helicopter and has also been designed to be fitted with a hangar as well as the HELO Deck.

Navdex will take place at Abu Dhabi’s National Exhibition Centre from February 17 to 21. – TradeArabia News Service