Launch of final patrol boat in Austal's fleet of 10 vessels for Yemen

They have been designed to meet a variety of operational requirements including general police missions in coastal waters; customs control and anti-terrorist operations at sea; offshore protection and tracking; surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone; defence and protection of national sea areas and operations within integrated task forces.

The patrol boat capabilities of Austal were first highlighted to the Yemen Ministry of Defence as part of an extensive requirements and worldwide market analysis carried out by an international strategic consultancy firm. Some 24 shipyards, including builders from Asia and eastern and western Europe were studied as part of this process. Impressed by Austal's naval design capability, value for money and short delivery times the consultants identified the Australian builder as the preferred supplier.

Austal's Sales and Product Development Manager Mr. Glenn Williams says Yemen is receiving a well-built, well-engineered and well-supported patrol boat fleet.

'Based on the eight Bay Class patrol boats Austal delivered to the Australian Customs Service in 1999/2000, these 37.5 metre deep V monohull patrol boats offer exceptional value for money by combining world best shipbuilding techniques and commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment,' he said.

'The aluminium construction contributes to both excellent high speed performance and through-life economies due to reduced propulsive power and maintenance requirements.'

The moderate power of two Caterpillar 3512 diesel engines driving fixed pitch propellers through Reintjes gearboxes ensured the contract speed of 29 knots was achieved on trials. This twin screw propulsion system blends mechanical reliability and simple, efficient operation with ease of maintenance and is backed by the suppliers' own well-established service and spares networks.

Twin rudders, fabricated from stainless steel, ensure maximum manoeuvrability and are offset from the screws to facilitate easy shaft removal.

The excellent seakeeping of the deep-V, single chine, semi-displacement hullform has already been proven through extensive tank testing and subsequent operational experience with the Australian Customs Service. This will facilitate operations well out into the nation's territorial waters. Operating range is in excess of 1000 nautical miles.

In order to enforce local and international laws, within Yemen's territorial waters each patrol boat is fitted with a 25mm twin barreled naval gun and two 12.7mm heavy machine guns. Weapons lockers for the machine guns and small arms are fitted and ready use ammunition lockers are located adjacent to each gun mounting.

To facilitate all possible combinations of functions that the vessel will be expected to perform with emphasis on safety and efficiency the deck layout has been designed with an absolute minimum of trip points. Bulwarks are provided to the weather deck forward and a port and starboard walkway are provided around the superstructure. The weather deck is raised forward to improve the vessel's operating capability.

Aft on the Main Deck a crane is fitted allowing transfer of general cargo from the vessel to a seaboat or ship to shore. A RIB sea boat with a 40 horsepower outboard engine is also provided.

Each patrol boat operates with a complement of 19 comprising three officers and 16 sailors.

The interior fitout has been completed to a comfortable and easy to maintain commercial standard. Layout is arranged for maximum habitability taking into account vessel movement, noise, vibration and the flow of personnel when carrying out their shipboard duties.

The spacious wheelhouse is arranged for three man operations and located for around-the horizon visibility and minimal motion, thus reducing crew fatigue. The emphasis on using COTS equipment from reputable suppliers is clearly evident in the navigation, communication and control systems, not only on the bridge but also in the dedicated operations room.

Sleeping accommodation comprises the Captain's and Officers' cabins on the main deck and two six-berth and two two-berth crew cabins in the hull, all provided with ample storage space. There is also a ship's office and separate mess areas for officers and crew.

In the mess rooms TV, video and audio entertainment system is fitted with a booster to enhance reception in marginal areas. A well-appointed galley and adjacent food storage allowing the vessels to spend at least 14 days at sea on patrol without replenishment. A fresh water maker is fitted to supplement potable water supplies.

The onboard air conditioning provides a comfortable working environment and has been designed taking the local climatic conditions, including extremely high air and sea temperatures, fully into account.