The vessel was designed and built by the French shipbuilder CMN Naval, which specialises in naval and commercial ship construction. The project is being delivered in cooperation with EDGE’s naval arm, Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), as part of a broader defence partnership between the United Arab Emirates and Angola.
Under the agreement, CMN Naval was subcontracted to design and construct the first and third ships of the class. The second BR71 MK II Combattante corvette will be constructed in Abu Dhabi by ADSB following a transfer of technology.
The contract represents a significant step in strengthening Angola’s maritime security capabilities. The programme is intended to enhance maritime surveillance and support the protection of national waters and strategic assets.
EDGE has already contributed additional naval capabilities to Angola through the delivery of smaller patrol vessels. ADSB previously supplied six 12-metre high-speed interceptors and one of five planned 16-metre interceptor vessels for the Angolan Navy.
David Massey, Chief Executive Officer of ADSB, said the programme demonstrates the pace of cooperation between industry partners involved in the project. “Through close collaboration with CMN and other international partners, we are achieving major milestones for the Angolan Navy at a rapid pace.”
Massey emphasised the speed at which the project has progressed since the contract was signed. “Having signed the contract just two years ago, the first 71-metre corvette has already been launched, and advanced interceptor vessels have been delivered.”
He added that construction work on the remaining vessels is continuing across multiple locations. “Two additional corvettes will follow, one to be built by CMN and the other by Abu Dhabi Ship Building in Abu Dhabi following a transfer of technology.”
According to Massey, the programme reflects a broader defence partnership between the participating organisations and Angola. “This momentum reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to strengthening Angola’s maritime security.”
EDGE company ANAVIA will also equip the corvettes with unmanned aviation capability. Each ship will carry two Swiss-designed HT-100 NAVAL unmanned helicopters fitted with electro-optic and infrared sensors.
The unmanned aerial systems will be fully integrated into the ships’ combat management systems to support maritime surveillance missions. The systems are designed to extend the ships’ situational awareness and reconnaissance capabilities.
Ishan Sahgal, Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of ANAVIA, said the technology will significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of the vessels. “We are delivering a proven force multiplier for maritime surveillance to the Angolan Navy.”
He also highlighted the broader support package accompanying the system. “In addition to the advanced performance and reliability of the HT-100, we are also providing a custom-made control station and integrated logistics support and training.”
The second BR71 MK II Combattante corvette is currently under construction in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, the third vessel is being built by CMN Naval in Cherbourg.
The launch of the first vessel marks the latest development in the security partnership between Angola and the United Arab Emirates. In October last year, EDGE also signed a letter of intent with Angola’s Ministry of Interior to deploy a comprehensive border security programme.
