ABU DHABI, UAE – Edge Group, a leading global high-tech and defence company, announced the launch of its first Corvette-class (FOC) frigate, the BR71 MK II Combattante.
Which bears the name “NRA Ekuikui II”, as part of a strategic contract worth one billion euros for the Angolan Navy.
The inauguration took place in Cherbourg, France.
The first ship was designed and built by CMN Naval, a prestigious global group specializing in the design, engineering and construction of military and commercial ships and mega yachts.
Delivery of interceptor boats
Abu Dhabi Shipbuilding Company, a subsidiary of Edge Group, delivered six 12-meter fast interceptor boats.
In addition to one of five 16-meter interceptor boats.
These boats form part of the Angolan Navy’s modern fleet and advanced capabilities, supporting vital maritime surveillance missions and national security objectives.
Anavia, a subsidiary of Edge Group, is also integrating the unmanned marine helicopter “HT100 NAVAL”, designed in Switzerland, aboard the Corvette “BR71 MK II Combattante”.
Each Corvette will be equipped with two unmanned HT100 NAVAL air systems, equipped with electro-Egyptian/infrared (EO/IR) sensors.
Modern station
These systems will be fully integrated with shipboard combat management systems.
The second BR71 MK II Combattante is currently under construction at Abu Dhabi Shipbuilding Company’s facilities in Abu Dhabi.
The third ship is being built in Cherbourg, France.
Construction work on the third ship continues in the French city of Cherbourg, as part of an integrated program that distributes the production stages between the UAE and France to ensure the highest levels of quality and accelerate the pace of delivery.
The launch of the first ship of this class represents the latest milestone in the growing security partnership between Angola and the UAE.
In October last year, the Edge Group signed a letter of intent with the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Angola to deploy a comprehensive border security programme.
