Nigerian Navy takes delivery of Sentinel patrol Boats

Chinazor Megbolu

In a bid to further protect the nation’s coaster areas, the Nigeria Navy has taken delivery of two 17- metre Sentinel fast patrol boats from Nautic Africa.

The statement on Monday explained the boats will be used for offshore patrol and escort duties.

The vessels, according to the statement, were handed over on May 10, but were specifically built for the Nigerian Navy, and will be used for general patrolling duties and the escorting of vessels.

Nautic Africa pointed out that the country’s coast is one of the areas on the African West Coast affected by piracy and as such, the area is regarded as ‘high risk’.

According to the statement; “the Nigerian Navy already has eight other fast patrol vessels in its fleet but the addition of these two state-of-the-art vessels has given the Navy the added confidence of knowing it has the assets it needs to protect its coastline”.

The 17 metre Sentinel vessel, the statement buttressed, comprised of a wheelhouse, with seating for five people, a technical space for equipment and storage, accommodation for six people, including bunks, galley and head facilities, and an engine room.

Meanwhile, the Nautic Africa maintained that the main propulsion system has two MTU 8V 2000 M84L diesel engines each driving a ZF 665A reduction gearbox connected to a MSA Marine Systems surface piecing tunnel propeller of which the engines are rated at 895 kW each.

“The range of the vessel is approximately four hundred nautical miles. The high speed planning craft are suitable for sea or river operations,” the statement said.

Nautic Africa, however, provided a complete maritime solution to the Nigerian Navy by providing modern, fast patrol vessels as well as training, maintenance, crewing and 24/7 lifecycle support.
The new vessels, the statement further noted will assist in the protection of Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas resources.