Durban, South Africa – Sandock Austral Shipyards (SAS) has announced a strategic partnership with Italian shipbuilding giant Fincantieri and its Canadian subsidiary, Vard Marine, to develop the Afrika class offshore patrol vessel (Vard 7 055). This collaboration aims to address the unique maritime challenges faced by African nations.
A Vessel Tailored for Africa
The Afrika class offshore patrol vessel is specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of African maritime operations. Based on the Vard 7 055 design, the vessel is 53 meters long and combines affordability, ease of maintenance, and operational flexibility. It is equipped with advanced navigation systems, robust seakeeping abilities, and fuel-efficient engines, making it ideal for missions such as maritime security, counter-piracy operations, fisheries protection, and search and rescue.
Advanced Capabilities
The vessel features sophisticated surveillance systems capable of detecting and engaging various surface contacts, from small wooden sailing craft to larger vessels. Its modular platform allows for mission flexibility, adapting to the diverse challenges of African waters. Additionally, the vessel can launch and recover two sea boats sequentially and operate them concurrently. It also supports helicopter transfers of personnel and light stores at sea.
Technical Specifications
- Length: 54.0 meters (177.2 feet)
- Engines: Three 2,240 kW (3,270 hp) main engines
- Speed: Capable of 25.5 knots
- Endurance: 21 days
- Complement: 47 persons
A Global Partnership with Local Impact
The partnership between SAS, Fincantieri, and Vard Marine brings together extensive global experience and regional expertise. Fincantieri, a leading global shipbuilding group, contributes its naval architecture and design capabilities, while Vard Marine provides technical expertise. SAS, strategically located on South Africa’s east coast, ensures efficient and cost-effective production of the Afrika class vessels.
Economic and Technological Benefits
SAS holds exclusive marketing and manufacturing rights, ensuring that the economic benefits of this partnership will be felt across South Africa and potentially the broader African defence sector. Localized production in South Africa will bolster the country’s defence industry, promote technology transfer, and expand the regional supply chain. According to SAS CEO Prasheen Maharaj, this initiative will create jobs, develop skills, and foster technology transfer within South Africa and the broader African continent.
Future Opportunities
The Africa Free Trade Agreement and defence cooperation agreements between South Africa and other African nations present opportunities for further intra-continental partnerships. This collaboration not only strengthens South Africa’s defence capabilities but also enhances regional security and economic growth.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing Africa’s maritime security and defence capabilities, showcasing the potential for successful international collaborations in the defence sector.
Meanwhile, in 2021, Sandock Austral and Petram Fortis collaborated to offer maritime security solutions to Ghana through the newly established joint venture Petram Sandock Maritime Systems.