Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) delivered the first of two 42-metre Landing Craft being built for the Royal Bahrain Naval Force.

ADSB won the contract for both 42-metre Naval Landing Craft and two 16-metre Fast Landing Craft in late 2008 against strong competition from international shipyards, said a company statement.

The 42m vessels have been designed to carry troops and vehicles, and can be used for cargo transportation and for beach landing in the coastal waters, it stated.

ADSB had previously built and delivered 2 similar vessels that are now in service with the UAE Navy., said a top official.  

The 16m vessels are capable of speeds in the 35-40 knot range and are designed for rapid deployment of personnel and supplies. The 16m vessels were delivered to the Royal Bahrain Naval Force ahead of the contract schedule in late 2009.
 
Homaid Al Shemmari, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Ship Building, said: "The delivery of the 42m vessel to the Royal Bahrain Naval Force is a testament to the world-class expertise and capabilities of Abu Dhabi Ship Building and reinforces our position as the preferred supplier and specialised service provider among military institutions in the GCC."

He pointed out that the company had created a dedicated project management team to work closely with a delegation from the Royal Bahrain Naval Forces for the project, which has helped achieve the desired technical and quality standards.

"The second 42m Landing Craft is already in advanced production stage and will be launched and delivered in late 2010," he added.