Oman’s new billion dollar fleet
The recent naming of the fourth and final Al Ofouq patrol vessel destined for the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) represents the end phase of one of the most comprehensive fleet rejuvenation programmes in the GCC region.
From a 1960s fleet of wooden dhows and the odd patrol vessel, the pre-rejuvinated Omani navy (pictured above) sourced its naval assets mainly from the West in order to meet its requirements. Fast forward to 2016 and surface assets are coming from all corners, at an expense of approximately $1.4 billion and counting.
What is noticeable is the increase in capability provided as
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