Emirati Shipbuilder ADSB Launches First Falaj 3 Offshore Patrol Vessel

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), part of the UAE’s EDGE Group, has launched the first Falaj 3-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) during a ceremony at its shipyard.

The event marks a key milestone in the AED 3.5 billion ($950 million) contract awarded in May 2021 by the UAE Ministry of Defence to construct four vessels for the UAE Navy.

The Falaj 3 vessels, measuring 60 meters in length, are designed for both littoral and open-sea missions. Equipped with combat battle management systems, the vessels will support air, surface, and subsurface operations. Their design emphasizes stealth with reduced radar cross-section, infrared, and acoustic signatures.

ADSB collaborated with Singapore’s ST Engineering for the vessel’s design and construction. ST Engineering provided the basic, detailed, and production designs and offered technical support for building the lead ship. The vessels are based on the Fearless-class patrol boats and are equipped with latest propulsion systems, including four engines powering four propellers, enabling speeds exceeding 26 knots.

Key specifications include a 9.5-meter beam, a full displacement of approximately 641 tonnes, and a range of 2,000 nautical miles at 16 knots. The vessels also feature an integrated platform management system, safety equipment, and a rigid-hull inflatable boat.