“Charting New Waters: A Historic Keel-Laying for HMS King Abdullah Marks Royal Saudi Navy’s ‘Project Tuwaiq'”
The Royal Saudi Navy recently celebrated a notable accomplishment by observing a key milestone in the construction of its third vessel under the prestigious “Project Tuwaiq.” The ship, formally named “HMS King Abdullah,” had its keel laid during a festive ceremony held in Marinette, Wisconsin, USA.
Rear Admiral Majid bin Hazzaa Al-Qahtani, the esteemed commander of the Royal Saudi Navy’s Eastern Fleet, had the honor of laying the keel for this advanced warship.
The keel-laying phase is seen as one of the pivotal stages in shipbuilding, adhering to American traditions. As the longest structural element of the vessel, it marks the commencement of the shipbuilding process.
In October of last year, the Royal Saudi Navy proudly initiated the keel for the second ship within the ambit of “Project Tuwaiq,” a strategic effort aimed at upgrading and modernizing the Royal Saudi Navy’s capabilities. This initiative encompasses the creation of four multi-mission combat vessels, poised to become critical assets in maritime warfare.
These four ships, including “HMS King Abdullah,” are outfitted with cutting-edge advanced combat technologies, empowering them to engage with unparalleled precision against aerial, surface, and subsurface threats.
Without a doubt, these formidable vessels will substantially enhance the combat effectiveness of the Royal Saudi Navy, bolster maritime security in the region, and diligently safeguard the kingdom’s strategic and vital interests.
“Project Tuwaiq” goes beyond mere ship construction; it signifies a comprehensive approach to training and certification programs for ship crews. In addition, the project supports innovative training simulations, logistics and technical support, and an efficient supply chain. It’s a collaborative effort aimed at transferring and localizing essential technical and technological expertise.
This commitment to localization resonates with the Crown Prince’s forward-looking announcement, as the initiative aspires to achieve 50% localization of total military spending by 2030. It marks a progressive stride in boosting the nation’s defense capabilities and fostering self-sufficiency in security and defense.
The Royal Saudi Navy’s engagement in “Project Tuwaiq” epitomizes its steadfast dedication to enhancing and safeguarding its maritime capabilities, ensuring regional stability, and reinforcing global peacekeeping efforts. As the keel is laid for “HMS King Abdullah,” the future of the Royal Saudi Navy appears more promising than ever.
