Fincantieri has commenced the construction of the first offshore patrol vessel (OPV) under a contract with the Qatari Ministry of Defence.

The event was marked by a steel-cutting ceremony at the company’s Muggiano (La Spezia) shipyard.

In June 2016, Fincantieri won a €4bn contract with the Qatari Ministry of Defence to build seven new generation surface vessels for the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces.

The company defeated Naval Group (formerly DCNS) to win the contract, which involves the construction of four corvettes, one amphibious vessel (landing platform dock), and two OPVs. It also includes the provision of support services in Qatar for a ten-year period after the delivery of the vessels.

“In the awarding of this prestigious contract, Fincantieri has prevailed over other competitors.”

In a statement, Fincantieri said: “In the awarding of this prestigious contract, Fincantieri has prevailed over other competitors, thanks to a project recognised as the most advanced and innovative of all and an experience gained in the construction of high-tech vessels.”

Designed to comply with the RINAMIL for Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) rules, the first OPV will be able to perform a range of tasks, from surveillance to being a fighting vessel.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The 63m-long, 9.2m-wide vessel can achieve maximum speeds of 30k and accommodate 38 crew members.

It features a propulsion system that contains four variable pitch propellers, two to starboard and two to the left, each in line with a diesel propulsion engine.

According to Fincantieri, the patrol vessel will also be able to operate a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) through a crane located at the stern.

The company commenced construction of the first Doha-class corvette under the contract last July.