According to information published by the Saudi MoD on October 25, 2022, the Royal Saudi Naval Forces received the first FPB 2200 patrol boat from the French firm Couach.
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First FPB 2200 patrol boat in Saudi Arabia. (Picture source: Saudi MoD)
The Commander of the Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Yahya bin Muhammad Al-Asiri, raised the flag over the first patrol boat, marking its entry into active duty in the fleet, in the presence of the CEO of Couach Florent Battistella.
Couach patrol boats are distinguished by their unique and advanced design, and high-speed engines that have made them flexible and light for maritime maneuvering.
The patrol boats include a sophisticated combination of electronic systems such as tracking devices, optical and thermal sensors, information exchange, and maritime navigation that allow them to perform search, surveillance, and tracking tasks with a highly intelligent electronic system.
They also include an artillery system that covers 360 degrees and a modern and advanced high-precision missile system for targeting and striking. These patrol boats are used to perform a variety of tasks, including rapid response, maintaining maritime security, and protecting maritime facilities.
The FPB 2200s have a length of 22,35 meters, a beam of 5,6 meters, and a draft of 1,34 meters. They are powered by two engines of 1200 HP to reach a top speed of 30 knots. They can carry a complement of 8 sailors.
The Royal Saudi Navy or Royal Saudi Naval Forces is the maritime arm of the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces and one of the five service branches of the Ministry of Defense of Saudi Arabia.
Its primary role is monitoring and defending the Saudi territorial waters against military or economic intrusion, and participating in international naval alliances.
