The Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) in the Western Fleet Command launched on Wednesday the second and third French Couach-class medium high-speed patrol vessels.
Vice Admiral Mohammed bin Abdurrahman Al-Gharibi, the RSNF Deputy Commander, raised the flag over the two boats on behalf of the RSNF Commander Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Ghufaili to mark their entry into the service, in the presence of the commander of the Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Yahya bin Mohammed Asiri.
Christophe Kloeckner, the CEO of Chantier Naval Couach and Director of LIG Nex1 Co., Ltd attended the ceremony, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
The Couach boats are characterized by their unique and advanced design and their high-speed engines, which boost their capacities in maneuvers.
The boats include a sophisticated combination of electronic systems such as tracking devices, optical and thermal sensors, information exchange, and marine navigation that enable them to carry out the search, monitoring, and follow-up tasks through a highly intelligent electronic system.
They also include an artillery system that covers 360 degrees and a modern and advanced system for high-precision missiles in targeting and hitting.
These boats are used in carrying out various missions, including rapid intervention, maintaining maritime security, and protecting maritime installations.
On 25 October 2022, the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) in the Western Fleet Command launched the first group of French Couach class medium high-speed patrol boats (photo).
Rear Admiral Asiri then said: “These boats are a qualitative addition to the capabilities of RSNF, as they will contribute to raising the level of military and security readiness, strengthening the maritime security force in the region, and protecting the vital and strategic interests of the Kingdom.”
He noted the constant care and unlimited support of the Saudi wise leadership and the Minister of Defense to develop the armed forces to serve the country.
The boats include a sophisticated combination of electronic systems such as tracking devices, optical and thermal sensors, information exchange, and marine navigation that enable them to carry out the search, monitoring, and follow-up tasks through a highly intelligent electronic system.
