NAUTIC Africa, the Paarden Eiland based shipbuilder (a subsisary of Paramount Maritime Holdings) has launched its new flagship 35m Sentinel vessel, the second of the new enhanced class.
Following the successful completion of sea trials, the multi-purpose vessel is destined for the Gulf of Guinea where it will be utilised for International Oil Company (IOC)-related assignments as well as escourt patrols for larger vessels that have experienced an escalation of pirate attacks within 200 nm of the W African coastline.
Nautic Africa also announced that larger naval versions (40m and 47m ) of the vessel have been been made available due to rising interest from navies, and will be offered globally to bolster military and fishing patrol operations across EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) waters.
The new flagship 35m Sentinel class maritime vessel, wholly designed with class leading features and manufactured in Africa, sets a new benchmark in innovative protection.It is fully compliant to the standards of naval and oil and gas (O&G) industries and International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the waters of the African continent and beyond.
Paramount Maritime Holdings Chief Executive Officer, James Fisher, stated: “The completion of our 35m flagship vessels during the COVID crisis is an important achievement and milestone for the South African shipbuilding industry, ushering in a new era of capability, excellence and performance. This is a celebration of what can be achieved despite facing, what seemed like, insurmountable challenges.
With insecurity throughout the Gulf of Guinea increasing – in large part due to the region’s diverse natural resources; transnational piracy, oil bunkering and terrorism – continues to be a serious threat to the region’s stability.
With passenger, crew comfort and security as top priorities in its design and manufacture, this vessel has been optimised for peak coastal operation performance, mobility and protection. The 35m Sentinel offers outstanding speed, with a range of 1 150 nm cruising at 20 knots along with being capable of reaching a maximum speed of 28 knots, supported by three CAT C32 ACERT 1 600 hp engines and fixed pitch propellers.
Further distinguishing this vessel from any others in the market is its exceptional ballistic protection (Wheelhouse STANAG KE Level II, Deck-house STANAG KE Level I), complete with a lifesaving ‘Super Shield’ composite wheelhouse structure and an internally clad main deck to a height of 2m. The highest levels of safety and ballistic support (for example, protection from typical assault rifle calibres) are thus ensured for the full crew, security personnel and passengers on board.
