NRA Ekuikui II, the first of three new corvettes destined for the Angolan Navy, has been launched at CMN’s shipyard in Cherbourg, Normandy.
The French shipyard is constructing two of the three new warships in a €1bn programme signed between the Angolan government and UAE-based defence and technology consortium EDGE Group. EDGE Group member ADSB (Abu Dhabi Ship Building) will build the third warship in Abu Dhabi under a technology transfer agreement (TTA).
The corvette is an evolution of CMN’s Baynunah-class vessel; she is 70 metres long, has a 2,500-nautical-miles range, and is capable of a maximum speed of 30 knots. Six Baynunah-class corvettes are currently in service with the United Arab Emirates Navy.
Optimised for littoral warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), the new corvettes can counter both air and surface threats. Reports suggest they will carry eight MBDA Exocet missiles, a Leonardo OTO76/62 Super Rapido naval gun and two Leonardo Lionfish remote weapon stations (RWS).
Following her launch last week at the CMN shipyard in Cherbourg, Ekuikui II will now begin a series of sea trials ahead of her scheduled delivery to the Angolan Navy in October this year. The second and third ships in the class are expected to be handed over during the course of 2027.
A statement from CMN on its social media site stated: “In a context where maritime security is more strategic than ever, the BR71 MKII Combatant NRA Ekuikui II will contribute to the protection of Angola’s maritime interests and regional stability.
“We wish the Angolan Navy safe navigation and great success at sea; to our partners, the pursuit of demanding and sustainable cooperation; and to this ship, a long life under its flag.”
- You can read more details on CMN Naval’s LinkedIn page