Omani Ministry of Defence Orders STV from Damen Shipyards

The Ministry of Defence in Oman has awarded Damen Shipyards Group a contract for the construction of a Sail Training Vessel (STV). The 87-metre square rigged, three-masted steel clipper and will take up her role as flagship. In addition to its key role of training young Omani navy cadets and officers, the new clipper will be deployed in a distinct diplomatic role and emphasize Oman’s centuries-old maritime tradition.

Due for delivery in August 2014, the ship will replace the RNO’s current RNOV ‘Shabab Oman’ and will be in the RNO Fleet. In March (2013) the ship’s keel laying ceremony took place at Damen Shipyards Galati (Romania). This was conducted by Rear Admiral Al Raisi, the RNO’s commander-in-chief. The RNO has an eight-strong overseeing team stationed in Romania.

The enhanced navy recruitment and training are part of Oman’s drive to increase its naval capabilities along its 3,165 kilometer coastline. Next to fleet expansion, this includes the establishment and expansion of the fleet facilities.

Three Damen yards

Overall Project management and procurement is in the hands of Damen Shipyards Gorinchem, whereas Damen Shipyards Galati forms the main building site. The clipper’s completion will be performed at Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding in Flushing (the Netherlands). Here, the three 50-metre steel/aluminum masts and the exterior woodwork will be installed, in addition to all interior wood lining furnishing and finish. Both inside and out, the sail training clipper will feature a clear, traditional Omani look and late 19th century tea clipper hull characteristics. The ship and the overseeing team are expected in Flushing for the completing stage late 2013.

‘We have our proven record in steel clippers to thank for this contract’, Damen Regional Sales Director Bram Langeveld and Arnoud Both, the Project Manager in charge, note. The vessel’s key construction features and its dimensions will largely resemble that of the ‘Stad Amsterdam’ and the ‘Cisne Branco’, the Brazilian navy’s new Sail Training Vessel. ‘Modern-day sophisticated sail training ships may even become a bit of a trend with us and we are very proud that the Omani Ministry of Defence has awarded this prestigious contract to us’, Langeveld adds.

Dutch design and engineering

The as yet nameless three-master will accommodate 34 navy recruits in addition to a 58-strong complement. 87 meters long and 11 meters wide, it will have 2,700 m² sail area. With the main design subcontracted to Dykstra Naval Architects – who also designed the ‘Stad Amsterdam’ and the ‘Cisne Branco’ – all engineering was ‘Made by Damen’.

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Press Release, May 16, 2013