Damen Shipyards Sharjah (DSS) in the United Arab Emirates has launched a new landing craft (LST 100) ordered by the Nigerian Navy.
The company revealed that the launching ceremony took place a few months ago at Albwardy Damen, Sharjah, UAE. The keel-laying ceremony for the vessel was held in February last year.
On completion the 100-meter, roll-on/roll-off landing ship will have the capacity to accommodate a crew of 32 and 250 Embarked Marine Forces personnel.
The vessel also has deck space for vehicles, a helicopter / UAV deck and significant space for cargo, which can be loaded via both a stern and a bow ramp or using the 25-tonne main crane.
These and other capabilities will enhance the Nigerian Navy’s ability to deploy troops and military hardware and vehicles in support of maritime security operations, as well as the supply of relief material in the event of disasters or other crises. Overall, it will be a critical component of power projection for the enhancement of Nigeria’s maritime security at every level.
The Nigerian Navy’s LST 100 is scheduled for delivery in 2022.
Located on a 284,000 square meter site, DSS is a joint venture between Damen Shipyards Group and Albwardy Marine Engineering. The yard has the facilities to repair and construct all type of vessels and has so far delivered tugs, workboats, support vessels, dredgers, landing craft, floating docks, barges and pontoons.
Damen offers a wide range of standardised LST vessels from 40-metres up to 120-metres, all fully customisable to meet the specific needs of each client.