Royal Saudi Navy Acquires Three Additional Avante 2200 Corvettes from Navantia

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Defense recently signed a contract with Spanish shipbuilder Navantia for the construction of three additional Avante 2200 corvettes.

These new vessels will share the same design as the ones already in service with the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF).

The construction of the first corvette is set to begin this year, while the third and final vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2028.

Navantia will build the first corvette in Spain, with the second and third vessels to be completed in Saudi Arabia.

With the addition of these three new Avante 2200 corvettes, the total number of Avante 2200 corvettes in the RSNF fleet will increase to eight, including the five units procured under a 2018 contract.

The Avante 2200 corvettes are designed for multi-mission maritime defense operations, including surface warfare, anti-air, and anti-submarine missions.

The ships are also equipped to address asymmetric threats and conduct maritime security operations.

The Hazem combat system, which will be installed, integrated, and tested on all three corvettes, will be delivered by SAMINavantia, a joint venture between Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and Navantia.

This integrated system was developed specifically for the Avante 2200 corvettes in collaboration with SAMI to enhance Saudi Arabia’s defense capabilities through technology transfer.

Key Features of the Hazem Combat System:

1. Combat Management System (CMS): Integrates sensors and weapons for full situational awareness and rapid response.

2. Sensors and Radar: Supports advanced radar and sonar systems to detect a range of threats.

3. Weapon Control: Manages an array of weapons, including missiles, air defense systems, and the main gun.

4. Integration and Automation: Enhances operational efficiency and reduces crew workload.

5. Multi-Threat Capability: Designed to counter threats from the air, surface, underwater, and asymmetric environments.

The development of the Hazem system is part of the technology transfer initiative to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s defense industry and local capabilities, providing the Avante 2200 corvettes with comprehensive combat capabilities for maritime defense missions.

Saudi Arabia’s 2018 Avante 2200 Contract

In 2018, Saudi Arabia signed a €1.8 billion (RM8.44 billion) contract with Navantia for the procurement of five Avante 2200 corvettes for the RSNF. This acquisition was part of the kingdom’s broader military modernization effort, aimed at strengthening its maritime defense capabilities.

The five corvettes delivered under the 2018 contract are:

1. Al-Jubail (828)

2. Diriyah (830)

3. Hail (832)

4. Jazan (834)

5. Unaizah (836)

Avante 2200 Corvette Specifications:

• Length: 104 meters

• Beam: 14 meters

• Displacement: Approximately 2,500 tons

• Maximum Speed: 25 knots (46 km/h)

• Range: Up to 4,500 nautical miles at 15 knots

• Crew: Approximately 92 personnel, with space for additional crew or special forces.

Weapons and Sensors:

The Avante 2200 corvettes are equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, ensuring comprehensive combat readiness:

• Anti-Ship Missiles: Such as the RGM-84 Harpoon, capable of striking surface targets.

• Air Defense System: Medium-range missiles for countering aerial threats.

• Main Gun: A 76mm Oto Melara, providing rapid and precise fire support.

• Close-In Weapon System (CIWS): Defends against close-range aerial threats.

• Torpedoes: Designed for anti-submarine warfare to detect and destroy enemy submarines.

With these capabilities, the Avante 2200 corvettes form a crucial part of the RSNF’s modernized fleet, enabling them to conduct a wide range of maritime operations effectively. – DSA