Saudis launch first locally built HSI32
GAMI announces indigenous production milestone for Saudi defence industry
The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Saudi Arabia on 14 October announced the launch of the first locally built HSI32 high-speed interceptor boat for the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF).
The craft (pictured) was manufactured by Zamil Offshore Services ‘according to the highest international specifications’, GAMI noted.
A total of 39 boats were ordered in 2018 under a $480 million agreement between Zamil and French shipbuilder CMN, which is building 21 with the remainder assembled in Saudi Arabia.
The HSI32 can reach a top speed of 45kt. According to Shephard Defence Insight, each craft has an overall length of 32.2m, beam of 7m and draft of 1.4m.
They are equipped with a 4.8m outboard RIB mounted on the stern ramp, a C2 system, one 20mm remote-controlled gun turret, an EO observation system, two 12.7mm side guns, a radio direction finder and a SATCOM for data link.
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