# Algeria to build Chinese corvettes locally

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2025/01/algeria-to-build-chinese-corvettes-locally/
- Published: 2025-01-04T12:58:09+01:00
- Author: Darek Liam and Military Africa

Algerian Defense Ministry announces plans to begin building Chinese Type 056 (F-
15A) corvettes at local shipyards.

This move follows the delivery of the first vessel, El Moutassadi (hull number 940),
in 2023. The vessel, built in China, marked Algeria’s initial acquisition of this
advanced Corvette.

In June 2020, Algeria [placed an order](https://www.military.africa/2020/06/algeria-looks-to-china-for-new-corvette/#google_vignette)
for a 96 metre corvette from China’s Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding Group (HZ), a 
subsidiary of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). The Corvette was 
[delivered](https://www.military.africa/2023/03/algerian-type-056-f-15a-corvette-el-moutassadi-940-arrives-home-from-china/)
in March 2023.

Subsequently, Algeria placed an order for six F-15A vessels. (Four, with an option
for two more.) However, after the delivery of El Moutassadi, there have been no 
reports of subsequent ships arriving from Chinese shipyards. This gap may have been
part of plans to move production to Algerian facilities, fostering domestic capabilities
in naval manufacturing.

The F-15A, also categorized as a light frigate, is equipped with a modern suite 
of weapons and sensors. It features a multi-role design, capable of performing patrol,
surveillance, and combat missions. With a displacement of approximately 1,800 tons,
it is fitted with advanced radar systems, surface-to-air missiles, and anti-ship
weaponry, making it well-suited for Algeria’s maritime security needs.

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The corvette of the F15A project has a total displacement of about 1,500 tons and
a length of 90 meters. The power plant is a two-shaft diesel, providing a full speed
of up to 25 knots. The cruising range is 3,500 miles at an economic speed of 16 
knots. The crew is 78 people.

The corvette is armed with four YJ-83 anti-ship missiles, one 10-charge HHQ-10 (
L-3000N) short-range SAM launcher, one 76-mm H/PJ-26 universal artillery mount, 
two 30-mm remotely controlled H/PJ-15 artillery mounts, two 324-mm three-tube torpedo
tubes and two rocket launchers. The ship has a landing pad for a helicopter.

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By manufacturing the F-15A locally, Algeria aims to reduce dependence on foreign
suppliers while enhancing its ability to maintain and upgrade its fleet. The initiative
also aligns with broader national objectives to strengthen Algeria’s defense industry.

In recent years, Algeria has prioritized modernization across its armed forces, 
with the Navy receiving particular attention due to the country’s vast maritime 
borders and critical offshore assets.

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