Construction of Qatari Navy’s FAC 50 Begins
Dearsan Shipyard has officially laid the keel for two 50-meter (164-foot) Fast Attack Crafts (FAC 50) designated for the Qatari Emiri Navy in Istanbul, marking a significant milestone in the construction of these advanced vessels. This initiative is part of Qatar’s broader strategy to modernize its naval capabilities, a project that was greenlit last March.
The keel laying ceremony followed the successful completion of a critical design assessment by Dearsan’s Project Control Office in November. According to the shipbuilder, the development phase will pave the way for extensive sea trials to be conducted in both Istanbul and Doha, providing a thorough evaluation of the vessels before their official delivery.
Expected Capabilities and Functions of FAC 50
Once commissioned, the new FAC 50 vessels are set to play a crucial role in various naval operations. They will be utilized for intelligence gathering, border security, port protection, anti-piracy initiatives, search and rescue missions, as well as other humanitarian efforts primarily in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and Qatar’s territorial waters.
The design of the FAC 50 incorporates advanced materials, using a combination of steel and aluminum for enhanced durability. With a draught of 2 meters (7 feet) and a beam of 9 meters (30 feet), these crafts will be powered by three diesel engines coupled with water jet propulsion, allowing them to accommodate up to 30 personnel efficiently.
Advanced Armament and Technology
The FAC 50 is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, including Çakir multi-domain cruise missiles and Sungur short-range air defense missiles. Additionally, the crafts will feature a Stamp lightweight remote-controlled weapon station, 40-millimeter cannons, and 12.7-millimeter man-portable machine guns, ensuring a robust defense and offensive capability.
Moreover, the ships will be outfitted with advanced electronic warfare systems, surveillance radar, low-signature navigation technology, and electro-optical sensors. These features are expected to enhance the combat effectiveness and operational flexibility of the FAC 50, which aims to achieve speeds exceeding 36 knots (67 kilometers/41 miles per hour) during missions.
Timeline for Delivery and Future Operations
The delivery timeline for the Qatari FAC 50 vessels is projected for 2027, with the second hull expected to be handed over two months following the delivery of the first. This structured timeline reflects the careful planning and execution involved in the construction of these naval assets.
As Qatar continues to bolster its maritime defenses and operational capabilities, the introduction of the FAC 50 will significantly enhance the Qatari Navy’s ability to respond to various maritime challenges in the region.
