Offshore Patrol Vessels Will Also Feature in Rio

Israel Shipyards will focus visitor attention on their SHALDAG fast patrol craft (FPV) family and their range of offshore patrol vessels (OPV) during LAAD 2019 in Rio de Janeiro next week.

Introducing coastal defence vessels for short- and long-distance protection, developed to prevent illegal activity and maritime terrorism, provide coastal protection for naval forces and protect territorial waters and exclusive economic zones (EEZs), the company will present a range of vessels and combat-proven solutions, including SHALDAG FPC and OPV with high levels of manoeuvrability and capabilities. Among the solutions installed on these vessels are cutting-edge weapon systems as well as command and control, electro-optics, and night vision systems.

The SHALDAG MK II will be on display, built from marine aluminium and driven by water jets, with a speed of above 45 kts, even in rough seas. It provides outstanding manoeuvrability and minimal draft, enabling operation in shallow waters. The SHALDAG MK II is designed for coastal protection as well as for riverine operations.

“We welcome cooperation between Israel Shipyards and naval forces worldwide and in Latin American in particular,” observed the company’s CEO, Eitan Zucker. “The recent delivery of four SHALDAG Fast Patrol Craft to Argentina is a major milestone in our activities in the region, and we are looking forward to expand it furthermore.”

The company will also showcase the most advanced and cost-effective OPV available. Designed mainly for coastal protection and offshore facilities, it has a variety of remotely controlled and stabilised armament systems. With a steel hull and an aluminium superstructure, the vessel can achieve speeds of over 32 knots. Weapon control stations and navigation systems are installed on the command bridge, enabling the commanding officer to have centralised control from the bridge. A helipad is optional and the latest version is available with a modern bridge structure design.