Austal prepares to launch Omani Navy's first high-speed support vessel

[Zarvan]

The first of two high-speed support vessels on order for the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) being prepared for launch. Source: Austal
Key Points

• Austal is preparing to launch the first of two support vessels on order for the Royal Navy of Oman
• The vessels are intended to bolster Oman's military sealift capabilities

Australian shipbuilder Austal is preparing to launch the first of two high-speed support vessels (HSSVs) on order for the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), the company announced on 16 October.

The vessel, bearing pennant number A10 with the name Al-Mubasher , is being delivered under a USD124.9 million contract awarded by Oman in March 2014. Construction began in August 2014 at Austal's shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia.

The two-ship programme is intended to bolster the RNO's sealift capabilities.

"Based on the proven Expeditionary Fast Transport platform, previously known as the Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV), the HSSV offers a range of capabilities to support naval operations, including helicopter operations, rapid deployment of military personnel and cargo, search-and-rescue operations, [and] humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions", Austal said in a statement.

According to IHS Jane's Fighting Ships , the platform has an overall length of 72.5 m, an overall beam of 18.2 m, and a draught of 3.2 m. Powered by four MTU16 V 4000 M93L diesel engines, the platform has a top speed of 35 kt and a standard range of 2,150 n miles at 12.5 kt. The vessel can accommodate a crew of 69 with space for 250 civilian personnel, and has a military lift capacity of 350 tonnes.

The HSSV will be armed with one 20 mm gun as a primary weapon, and four 12.7 mm machine guns.

The platform, which features a catamaran design, will be launched during the week of 19 October, before undergoing final outfitting and sea trials, according to Austal. The vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2016.

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Austal prepares to launch Omani Navy's first high-speed support vessel - IHS Jane's 360