Al-Fulk. Photo: X @Fincantieri
The Italian company Fincantieri has officially delivered a modern amphibious assault ship, named “Al Fulk“, to the Qatari Navy.
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The ceremony took place at the Mujano shipyard in La Spezia, where the ship was finalized at Fincantieri’s facilities.
A Strategic Partnership
The delivery ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including the Commander of the Qatari Emir’s Naval Forces, Major General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, and the Director of the Italian Navy’s Military Personnel Office, Vice Admiral Andrea Güello. The project, initiated in 2016, symbolizes a strategic cooperation between the two countries in defense and naval technology.
A Milestone in Shipbuilding
Although the order for construction was placed in 2016, the ship’s keel was only laid in June 2021, with the construction completed in a record time of two years. The ship was officially launched on January 24, 2023, with sea trials commencing in May 2024. After a full cycle of successful trials, the “Al Fulk” is ready to join the Qatari Navy’s fleet.
Al-Fulk. Photo: X @Fincantieri
Impressive Technical Features
The “Al Fulk” combines amphibious assault capabilities with advanced air defense systems. Based on the Italian San Giorgio class ships, the “Al Fulk” offers significant improvements in firepower and technology:
- Missile Systems: Equipped with Sylver A-50 vertical launchers, the ship has 16 cells for Aster 15/30 missiles, controlled by the Leonardo Kronos Power Shield radar, providing advanced anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense.
- Additional Armament: The bow is equipped with a Super Rapido 76 mm automatic gun for air and anti-ship defense, as well as four 30 mm guns on remotely controlled modules for short-range protection.
- Transport Capacity: With a displacement of 8,800 tons, the “Al Fulk” can carry up to three helicopters, along with tanks and other equipment in a dedicated internal hangar.
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A Strategic Boost for Qatar
The delivery of the “Al Fulk” marks a significant advancement in Qatar’s defense capabilities, particularly in naval and amphibious operations. The integration of cutting-edge technologies, combined with its operational flexibility, positions the “Al Fulk” as one of the most advanced ships in its class.
Source: Fincantieri on LinkedIn. Photos and video: X @Fincantieri. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
