Saudis launch first locally built HSI32
The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Saudi Arabia on 14 October announced the launch of the first locally built HSI32 high-speed interceptor boat for the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF).
The craft (pictured) was manufactured by Zamil Offshore Services ‘according to the highest international specifications’, GAMI noted.
A total of 39 boats were ordered in 2018 under a $480 million agreement between Zamil and French shipbuilder CMN, which is building 21 with the remainder assembled in Saudi Arabia.
The HSI32 can reach a top speed of 45kt. According to Shephard Defence Insight, each craft has an overall length of 32.2m, beam of 7m and draft of 1.4m.
They are equipped with a 4.8m outboard RIB mounted on the stern ramp, a C2 system, one 20mm remote-controlled gun turret, an EO observation system, two 12.7mm side guns, a radio direction finder and a SATCOM for data link.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
HSI 32-High Speed Interceptors [Saudi Arabia]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
Outgoing US Navy Secretary names a host of vessels among his last actions in the role
The outgoing US Secretary of the Navy named destroyers, submarines and aircraft carriers during his last weeks in office.
-
Can retrofitted autonomy support cash-strapped navies?
Autonomous vessels can reduce risk to the lives of naval personnel, but could retrofitting be a faster, cheaper option?
-
South Korea receives first Batch-III frigate and issues contracts for other vessels
South Korea is moving ahead at speed with its frigate programme, involving both domestic heavy-hitting shipbuilders.
-
UK-Japan meeting resolves details of Carrier Group operations
As joint military training begins between the UK and Japan, a meeting of defence ministers plans details of a Carrier Group deployment later in the year.
-
Spanish F-110 frigate’s new SPY-7 radar achieves successful track, keeping launch on schedule
The SPY-7 radar will undergo testing and calibration down to its component level before it is handed over to the Spanish Navy.