Malaysian Company Successfully Completes Construction of Two Nigerian Navy Patrol Vessels

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Local shipbuilding companies KN Aluminium & Engineering Sdn Bhd (KNAE) and Northern Shipyard Sdn Bhd have successfully completed the construction of two Nigerian Navy patrol vessels within 24 months from the date of the order.

The construction of these patrol vessels was carried out entirely by local workforce and expertise.

The 38M Sea Eagle vessels, capable of reaching speeds of 29 knots, are designed for missions such as patrolling, escorting, border control, and search and rescue (SAR) operations.

Quoted by the national news agency, BERNAMA, KNAE Director Khee Chee Kheong said the design, manufacturing, and integration of the patrol vessels utilized the latest systems, reflecting the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the maritime industry.

“We employed 99 percent local workforce and expertise to build these two patrol vessels, which is a significant honor for us. It is remarkable for the company to complete and deliver this project,” he said during a press conference yesterday.

“With our capability to construct these two patrol vessels, we hope the Malaysian government will also give us the opportunity to build ships for Malaysia’s maritime needs.”

The event was officiated by Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari.

Khee also mentioned that the company plans to participate in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA ’25), scheduled from May 20 to 24 next year, as a platform to further showcase their shipbuilding expertise.

Meanwhile, Northern Shipyard’s Corporate Relations Manager, Captain Dr. Baharin Baharom, stated that the successful construction of these two vessels continues the momentum from the delivery of four The Great Manta patrol boats to the Nigerian Navy, completed in December 2020.

“The previous four patrol boats delivered to the Nigerian Navy received positive feedback in terms of quality and workmanship,” he said. He added that the two new patrol vessels are expected to be handed over to the Nigerian Navy next month.

In his speech at the event, Adly highlighted that the construction of the 38M Sea Eagle patrol vessels not only demonstrates the capability of the local industry but also proves that Malaysia can produce high-tech ships on par with developed nations.

 

According to him, this achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all parties involved in the construction of these vessels, from the design phase to construction and testing.

“The construction of these patrol vessels not only showcases the local industry’s ability to produce high-quality assets but also proves the skill, competence, and expertise of the local workforce in shipbuilding.” — DSA