IDEX2009: ADSB builds for CNIA

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) has landed an AED460m contract to build a fleet of new fast interceptor vessels for the UAE’s Critical National Infrastructure Authority (CNIA). The deal, signed yesterday at IDEX, will see ADSB work with Turkish shipbuilder Yonca Onuk to deliver a total of 34 16m vessels based on the latter’s MRTP16 design. UAE-based International Golden Group is also assisting in the project. The new interceptors will be used by CNIA to interdict potential threats in the UAE’s maritime zone. Powered by MTU diesel engines, they will be capable of speeds in excess of 50 knots.

Announcing the contract, CNIA’s director general, Staff Brigadier Engineer Muhair Ali Al Khateri, said: “Through this deal, CNIA aims to expand the capabilities of its fleet, which is tasked with protecting the country’s critical marine facilities. The contract provides high-quality boats, built using state-of-the-art multipurpose technologies and equipment.” Bill Salzer, CEO of ADSB, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to build this fleet for CNIA, which marks our first new-build order for the authority. We already provide maintenance and support to the CNIA’s existing fleet under rate running contracts.” ADSB is prime contractor for the contract, with Yonca Onuk operating as principal subcontractor and design partner.

Manufactured in composites, the first 12 of the armed interceptors will be built by Yonca Onuk at its shipyard in Tuzla, Istanbul. Deliveries to CNIA are planned to commence within 12 months. Under a transfer of technology agreement, the remaining 22 craft will be built locally by ADSB. The first of these is expected to be delivered in about 14 months’ time.

Posted in: IDEX,Missile boat,UAE