United Arab Emirates defense conglomerate EDGE Group has signed a 1 billion euro contract with Angola for the delivery of a fleet of 71-meter corvettes for the Angolan Navy.
Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) will be responsible for delivering the BR71 MKII corvettes, which feature 3D radars, electronic warfare suites, secure communications, a main gun, and surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems.
First unveiled in 2015, the BR71 Mk II is an evolution of the Baynunah-class corvette that was designed for the UAE Navy by France’s Constructions Mécaniques de Normandie (CMN).
In addition to its anti-surface and anti-air warfare capabilities, the BR71 Mk II is geared for patrol, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
“Signing a 1 billion euro defense export deal represents a momentous achievement for EDGE as well as ADSB,” Khalid Al Breiki, president – platforms and systems, EDGE said.
The conglomerate added that by exporting UAE-made advanced solutions globally, it is “developing a local defense industrial base, generating in-country value, diversifying the economy, and positioning the UAE as a serious global player within the advanced technology and defense sectors.”
“At ADSB, we feel a tremendous sense of pride in signing a 1 billion euro export deal. The BR71 MKII corvette is a highly advanced vessel capable of performing multiple missions to secure Angola’s 1600 km coastline. We look forward to fulfilling the Angolan Navy’s operational requirements and strengthening their naval capabilities while expanding ADSB’s avenues of growth,” David Massey, CEO of ADSB said.
