Saudi unveils HMS Onaiza, bolstering maritime security
Saudi Arabia has inaugurated His Majesty’s Ship “Onaiza” in a ceremony held in Jeddah on Thursday. The launch, executed by Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant-General Fayyadh bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, stood as a notable addition to the Sarawat project fleet, exemplifying the kingdom’s commitment to enhancing its naval prowess.
The unveiling ceremony unfolded at the prestigious King Faisal Naval Base in the Western Fleet, where Lieutenant General Al-Ruwaili, representing Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman, presided over the event. Welcoming Al-Ruwaili was Commander of the Naval Forces, Lieutenant General Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
In his address, Lieutenant General Al-Ghofaily emphasized the strategic importance of the newly christened Corvette Avante 2200, heralding its potential to fortify the Royal Saudi Navy’s operational readiness. With its advanced capabilities, HMS Onaiza is poised to play a pivotal role in reinforcing regional maritime security and safeguarding the kingdom’s vital strategic interests.
The induction of HMS Onaiza into the Saudi naval fleet represents a proactive measure to bolster the nation’s defense capabilities amidst evolving regional dynamics. The corvette’s deployment underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to actively contribute to fostering stability and security in the region’s maritime domains.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in modernizing its defense infrastructure, the launch of HMS Onaiza underscores the nation’s steadfast dedication to strengthening its maritime capabilities. The corvette’s addition to the fleet reflects the kingdom’s proactive stance in safeguarding its maritime borders and ensuring the protection of vital maritime trade routes.
The inauguration of HMS Onaiza marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to fortify its national security apparatus. With its advanced technology and strategic positioning within the Sarawat project fleet, the corvette stands as a testament to the kingdom’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and promoting regional stability.