SHALDAG and OPVs Prominent in Company Offering
Israel Shipyards is showcasing a family of ships and proven combat solutions featuring high manoeuvrability at EXPONAVAL 2018 in Valparaíso this week. Among the solutions installed in these ships are state-of-the-art weapons systems as well as advanced C2 systems, electro-optics and night vision.
The shipyard is showcasing two models from its SHALDAG family of fast patrol vessels: the SHALDAG MK II and SHALDAG MK V. Both are built of maritime aluminum, propelled by water jet, with a speed exceeding 40kts, even in turbulent waters. They feature high manoeuvrability and minimal draft, allowing for operations in shallow water. The SHALDAG MK II is designed for coastal and riverine operations, while the SHALDAG MK V is, among other things, designed for protection missions in the Exclusive Economic Zone.
In South America, for example, the Naval Prefecture of Argentina already has four MK IIs. “It is a versatile platform adaptable to the realities of Latin America. The weapon system can be adapted under its logistic condition. The experience with Argentina is excellent from both sides. It is a client with a lot of technological capacity,” a company representative told MONCh.
Also on display is the Coastal Patrol Ship (OPV) with a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, capable of transits at over 32 knots. The weapon control stations and navigation systems are installed on the bridge, allowing for centralized C2.
“Customer satisfaction is our top priority and, therefore, we try to provide a complete, integrated, fast and flexible system. We provide the ship in addition to all the systems required to be installed on the ship as needed. Our products, which are of the highest quality and delivered quickly, are customised according to the unique needs and requirements of our customers,” affirmed Israel Shipyards’ CEO, Eitan Zucker.
