UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
RBNF Ahmed Al Fateh-class missile boat. (Photo: RBNF)
Leonardo has completed a seven-year, six-vessel upgrade programme for the Royal Bahrain Naval Force (RBNF).
The Italian company announced on 5 April 2022 that it handed over the Ahmed Al Fateh-class guided-missile boat Al Taweelah to the RBNF in late March following a successful integrated sea acceptance test.
Upgrade work included the installation of a new Leonardo combat management system, training services and logistics support.
The RBNF awarded Leonardo a €50 million ($57.1 million) contract in 2015 to upgrade six naval vessels. Bahrain received its first upgraded ship (the guided-missile craft Al Manama) in December 2017.
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
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