The Super Dvora MKIII multi-mission patrol and attack boats are manufactured by the Ramta division of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The first MKIII naval crafts were handed over to the Israel Navy in 2004, following a contract signed with the Israel Ministry of Defense in January 2002.
The latest water jet-powered fast patrol craft, the Super Dvora MKIII is a successor to the Dabur, Dvora, Shapirit and Super Dvora Mark-1 and Mark-2 boats. The new boat was first trialled in the sea in 2008 by the Israeli Navy.
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Super Dvora MKIII orders and deliveries
The Israeli Navy awarded a contract to IAI’s Ramta division for the supply of four Super Dvora MKIII patrol and attack boats in October 2013.
In March 2015, IAI was awarded a contract from an African military customer to supply four Super Dvora MKIII fast patrol boats. All four boats will be delivered in 2016.
Super Dvora MKIII missions
The Super Dvora MKIII patrol boats are deployed in missions such as offshore patrol, law enforcement, naval intelligence, command and control, interdiction and boarding of suspect targets, and protection of exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Its non-military applications include search and rescue (SAR), humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Design and features of the Super Dvora patrol boat
The Super Dvora MKIII incorporates an aluminium hull, whose geometry enables stability in the sea at all speeds. The operational capability of the boat is enhanced by incorporating a range of capabilities in a single platform.
The modular design accepts a wide range of payloads for conducting patrol or combat missions and ensures the integration of modular systems for future requirements. The high-sustained speeds and improved sea-keeping abilities allow stability in brown and blue water operations. The boat is capable of intercepting targets at speeds nearing 50k.
The vessel measures 27.4m in length and 5.7m in beam, and has a displacement of up to 72t. It can reach speeds exceeding 40k.
Accommodation on board the Israeli patrol boat
The Super Dvora MKIII boat provides accommodation for 12 crew members. It offers air-conditioned officer/crew quarters, mess and workspaces, an equipped galley and recreation areas for on-board marines. The boat features spacious passageways to enable better movement throughout and access to all spaces.
Weaponry of the Super Dvora MKIII
The boat can carry advanced stabilised precision naval weapon systems and sensors for enemy engagement during day and night, in all weather conditions. It is mounted with a Rafael Typhoon stabilised 25mm cannon aimed by POP-300 day/night mast-mounted optronic payload.
The vessel can be additionally armed with optional weapon systems, including long-range missile launching system and short-range missiles, such as Hellfire surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs).
Sensors and mission systems of the Super Dvora MKIII
The Super Dvora MKIII can be integrated with modern combat information centre featuring displays and controls for systems and mission payloads. The boats are optionally fitted with day/night electro-optic device, anti-missile early warning radar, intelligence gathering systems and self-defence suite.
Super Dvora MKIII propulsion
The Super Dvora MKIII is available with a choice of propulsion systems, such as the latest articulating surface drives (ASD) or waterjet propulsion.
The ASD system enables operations in extremely shallow water at minimal drafts of 1.2m, allowing for beaching operations by naval personnel in military missions, or in humanitarian relief missions to deliver medical and food supplies, or for rescuing injured persons.
The ASD system also enables the operators to proactively steer the propellers, providing the craft with thrust vectoring control which is akin to many advanced fighter jet aircraft being used currently.
The two MTU-type 12v396 TE94 diesels driving two articulated surface drives provide a maximum range of 1,500nmi at economic speed.
