Jul 22, 2011

Future of the United Arab Emirates Navy

A considerable growing, to face Iranian Threat...

Cartography

Of the entire UAE land aera, the water was “negligible”.
Coastline: 1318 km, a EEZ of 58,218 km2.

Personnal Strenght: +/- 2500

Up to 7 Corvettes
1 Abu Dhabi
1650 tons, 89 meters (Italian Comandanti corvette design). To be commissioned by 2012, option for a second ship possible.

6 Baynunah
900+ tons, 71 meters (French Corvette design). Commissioned by 2011/2013.

+/- 12 Fast Attack Missiles Crafts
2 Falaj 2
520 tons, 55 meters, option for 2 additionnal ships, to be commissioned by late 2012.

2 MGB-62
(Muray Jip, Das). 560/630 tons, 65+ meters (German FPB-62 FAC design). Commissioned by 1990/1991.

6 TNC-45
(Banyas, Marban, Rodqm, Shaheen, Saqar, Tarif). 230/260 tons, 45 meters (German TNC 45 FAC design). Commissioned by 1980/1981.

2 Mubarraz FAC
(Mubarraz, Makasib). 225/260 tons, 44+ meters (German improved TNC 45 FAC design). Commissioned by 1990.

+/- 6 Mid Shore Patrol Vessels
6 Ardhana
(Ardhana, Zurara, Murban, Al Ghullan, Radoom, Ghanadhah), 110/175 tons, 34 meters (british 110 ft PB design). Commissioned by 1975/1976, to be retired/replaced very soon by the 6 newest Baynunah Corvettes.

2 Mine-Hunters
2 Type 332 Frankenthal
(Al Murjan, Al Hasbah). 650 tons, 54+ meters (ex 1990’s German Frankenthal MCM). Transferred by 2006.

In Shore Patrol Vessels
20 patrol Boats
4 tons (uncertain data ?)

Medium/Small Amphibious Crafts
7 LCT
5 LCU
16 LCP

4 others crafts ?

EAU Coast Guard (uncertain data ?)
2 Protector
9 PBF
21 PB
6 PBI

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Royal Saudi Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Omani Navy

A strategic position near the gulf for a strategic "Arabian Persian Navy"

Cartography
Of the entire Omani land aera, the water was “negligible”.
Coastline: 20 92 km, a EEZ of 533,180 km2.

Personnal Strenght: +/- 4200

5 Corvettes
3 Khareef
(Al Shamikh, Al Rahmani, Al Rasikh). 2500 tons, 99 meters (British design). Commissionned by 2012/2013.

2 Al Qahir
(Al Mua’zzar, Qahir Al Amwaj). 1100/1400 tons, 83+ meters (British Corvette design). Commissioned by 1996.

4 Fast Attack Missile Crafts
4 Province
(Dhofar, Al Sharquiyah, Al Bat’nah, Mussandam). 310/390 tons, 56+ meters (late 1970’s British FAC design). Commissioned by 1982/1989.

3 Mid Shore Patrol Vessels
3 Al Bushra
(Al Bushra, Al Mansoor, Al Najah). 450 tons, 54 meters (French modified P400 PB design), built by 1995/1996.

3 Amphibious Ships
1 Al Mabrukah
(Fulk Al Salamah). 10 000+ tons, 125 meters (British design). Commissioned by 1987.

2 Nasr Al Bahr
(Nasr Al Bahr, Al Sultana). 2500 tons, 93 meters (Algerian Kalaat LST design, likely derived from Russian ships). Commissioned by 1985+

Al Said (royal yacht Training Shabab Oman

Omani Police Coast Guard +/- 400
+/- 8 Mid Shore Patrol Vessels
3 CG 29
(Haras 7, 9, 10). 80/100 tons, 28+ meters (Sweden CG 29 PB design), built during 1980’s.

1 CG 27
(Haras 9). 50+ tons, 24 meters (Sweden CG 27 PB design), built during 1980’s.

4 Seeb
(Al Seeb, Al Shinas, Al Sadh, Al Khasab). 75 tons, 23 meters. Built by 1981.


Inshore Patrol Vessels
1 P 1903
(Haras 8). 30+ tons, 19+ meters (Dutch PT 1903 MkIII PB), built by 1981.

5 Zahra
(Zahra 14, 15, 17, 18, 21). 16/18 tons, 13+ meters. Built by 1981/1987

??? Haras
(Haras 1/5). 45 tons, 23 meters, built by 1975/1978.

Few dozens of small crafts probable, uncertain data...


As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Qatari Navy

A small but prosperous Navy

Cartography
Of the entire Qatari land aera, the water was “negligible”.
Coastline: 563 km, a EEZ of 31,590 km2.

Personnal Strenght +/- 1800

+/- 7 Fast Attack Missile Crafts

4 Vita
(375 tons, 53+ meters (British FAC design).

3 Combattante III
(Damsah, Al Ghariyah, R’Biva). 340/390 tons, 56 meters (late 1970’s French Combattante III FAC design). Commissioned by 1982/1983.

6 Mid Shore Patrol Vessels
Up to 6 Barzan
(Barzan, Hwar, That Assuari, Al Wusaail, Fateh al Khair, Tariq). 120 tons, 33+ meters (1970’s British PB design). Commissioned by 1975/1976, may be 2 ships already retired ?


In Shore Patrol Vessels
6 Damen Polycat 1450
(Q 31/36). 18 tons, 13+ meters (Dutch design), built by 1980.

2 Keith Nelson
45 foot 13 tons, 13+ meters (British design). Built by early 1970’s.

2 Marine Interceptor
1+ tons, built by 1975.

4 MV-45
17 tons, 13+ meters, built by 1989.

25 Spear
(Q 70/95). 4/10 tons, 9+ meters (British design). Built by 1974/1977.

5 P 1500 ? ou P1200

7 P1200
12+ tons, built by 1980

4 DV 15.
15 meters.

3 Helmatic M160

2 Helmatic Pilot crafts

4 Rotrork

1 Small Amphibious
1 Robha LCT

Others

11 RHIB

Coastal Battery
3 X 4 MM-40 missiles.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Bahraini Navy

A very small (but still powerful FAC ships) navy for a very small country

Cartography

Coastline: 161 km (100 mi), a EEZ of 8 884 to 10,225 km2.


Personnal Strenght: +/- 1200


1 Frigate

1 Sabha
(Sabha). 4100 tons, 138 meters (ex US O.H.Perry FFG). Transferred by 1996.

+/- 8 Fast Attack Missiles Crafts
2 Al Manama/Ahmed Al Fateh
(Al Manama, Al Muharraq). 530/630 tons, 63 meters (German TN-62 FAC design). Commissioned by 1988.

4 Ahmad El Fateh (Ahmad El Fateh, Al Jaberi, Abdul Rahman Al Fadel, Al Tameelah). 220/270 tons, 44/46 meters (German TNC 45 FAC design). Commissioned by 1984/1989.

2 Al Riffa
2 Al Riffa (Al Riffa, Hawar). 180/200+ tons, 38+ meters (German FPB/TN-38 FAC design). Commissioned by 1981.

+/- 16 Patrol Boats

2 Al Jarim (Swift 20 foot)
(Al Jarim, Al Jasrah). 33 tons, 19+ meters (US PB design). Commissioned by 1982.

2 Wasp 11
(Saham 1/3). 7+ tons, 11 meters, built by 1983, now status uncertain.

2 Wasp 20
(Dera’a 4/5). 34/36 tons, 17+ meters, built by 1983.

1 Wasp 30
(Al Yusrah). 100+ tons, 29+ meters, built by 1985.

4 Halmatic 20
(Deraa 2, 6/8). 30+ tons, 17+ meters.

1 Halmatic 160 (support craft)
(Safra 3).160+ tons, 26+ meters, built by 1992+

4 Sword
(Saif 1-4). 15 tons, 13+ meters, built by 1980.

+/- 7 Medium/Small Amphibious Crafts
4 LCU 1466

(Mashtan, Rubodh, Suwad, Jaradah). 180/300+ tons, 35+ meters (US LCU design).


1 Tiger hovercraft

(Nijood). 4+ tons, 8 meters, built by 1995.


1 Marine LCU
(Safra 2). 150 tons, 22+ meters (British crafts design), built by 1980, status uncertain ?


1 Ajirah
(Ajirah). 400+ tons, 39+ meters (US LCU design). Built by 1982.


Others
10 wooden motor Dhows for logistics/patrol duties.

Bahraini Coast Guard +/- 260

+/- 22 crafts (15 less than 100 tons).

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Jul 15, 2011

Future of the Norwegian Navy

Look toward NATO requirement and Artic interest

I am still lack time to fully+++ complete this review :(

Cartography
Of the entire Norwegian land aera, 16,360 km² were of lakes/rivers.

Coastline: 25,148 km (continental); 83,281 km (including…50 000 islands) A totals EEZ of 1 979 179 km² (the largest in Western Europe)

Personnal Strenght: +/- 3700
(+ a reserve of 22 000)


5 Frigates

5 Fridtjof Nansen
(Fridtjof Nansen, Roald Amundsen, Otto Sverdrup, Helge Ingstad, Thor Heyerdahl). 5200 tons, 134 meters (Spanish FFG design). Commissioned by 2006/2011, with probable +/- 30 year of service, to be retired around 2036/2041.

6 Submarines
6 Ula
(Ula, Utsira, Utstein, Utvaer, Uthaug, Uredd). 1000+ tons, 59 meters. Commissioned by 1989/1991, with probable +/- 30 year of service expected, to be retired around 2019/2021.

The Norwegian Navy has also shown interests in the new Swedish conceptual A-26 SSK and may order several submarines by the late of this decade ?...wait & see...

6 Fast Attack Missiles Crafts
6 Skjold
(Skjold, Storm, Skudd, Steil, Glimt, Gnist). 270 tons, 47 meters. Commissioned by 1999/2011.

+/- 6 Mine-Hunters
3 Oksøy (MineHunters)
(
Karmøy, Måløy, Hinnøy). 275 tons, 55 meters. Commissioned by 1994/1995.

3 Alta (Minesweepers)
(
Alta, Otra, Rauma). 275 tons, 55 meters. Commissioned by 1996/1997.

+/- 20 Flexible Small Crafts
20 CB 90N
(
Trondenes, Skrolsvik, Kråkenes, Stangnes, Kjøkøy, Mørvika, Kopås, Tangen, Oddane, Malmøya, Hysnes, Brettingen, Løkhaug, Søviknes, Hellen, Osternes, Fjell, Lerøy, Torås, Møvik). 14/19 tons, 14+ meters (Swedish CB 90N craft design). Commissioned by 1996/1998.

1 Fleet Tanker
1 Valkyrien
(Valkyrien). 3000 tons, 68 meters (former 1981 anchor-handling tug/supply vessel). Transferred by 1993/1995.

2 Various Support Ships
1 Viken (Diving Tender)
(Viken). 1984 built, uncertain status ?

1 Kjeoy (Logistic Support Tender)
(Kjeoy) 190 tons, 20+ meters, 1969 built, status unclear

1 Minesweeper/Minelayer
1 Tyr
(Tyr). 490/650 tons, 42+ meters (1981 civilian built). Transferred by 1993/1995.

1 Royal Yacht
1 Norge
(Norge). 1700+ tons, 76 meters, built by 1937.

1 Intelligence Ship
1 Marjata
(Marjata). 5300+ tons, 81+ meters. Commissioned by 1993.

+/- 7 Small Amphibious/Logistic Crafts
7 Gyda
(L 4540-4546). 7 tons, 13 meters (Type 1290), built by 2003/2004.


+/- 5 Torpedo Tenders/Torpedo Recovery Vessels
3 Rotvaer
(Rotvaer, Krottoy, Torpen). 215+ tons, 29 meters. Commissioned by 1977/1978, no longer in service ?

1 Vernoy (oil spill cleanup capable)
(Vernoy). 150 tons, 31+ meters, built by 1978.

1 Karlsoy
(Karlsoy). Data unclear ?


+/- 11 Personnal Transport/Launch Crafts
1 Hysnes
(Fosna). 38 tons, 15+ meters, built by 1985.

1 HP 20
(Ellida), built by 1999.

1 Welding
(Welding). 27+ tons, 16+ meters, built by 1974.

8 Others various Personnal Transport/Launch Crafts
(Magoy, Fjoloy, Odin, Ramnes, Wisting, Nordep, Arnoy, Marsteinen). Status unclear ?


+/- 3 Training Crafts
2 Hessa
(Hessa, Vigra). 40 tons, 23+ meters, 1978 built.

1 Hitra (training/museum ship)
(Hitra). 95+ tons, 33+ meters (famous WWII US SC coastal craft !).

3 Harbors Tugs
2 Sleipner
(Sleipner, Mjolner). 24 meters. Acquired by 2002.

1 Kvarven
Kvarven. 170 tons, 22+ meters (1979 built). Acquired by 1988.

4 SAR Crafts
(Marinej 1-4).

Various Crafts
6 Harek
(SHV 101-106). 10 tons, 13 meters (Type 1300 Mk2), built by 2003/2004.


Maybe few RIB assigned to shore stations ?
Few others harbors crafts, uncertain data ?

NORWEGIAN COAST GUARDS +/- 270
5 Nornen (ST-610)
(Nornen, Farm, Heimdal, Njord, Tor). 740+ tons, 47+ meters. Commissioned by 2006/2007+

1 Type UT 512
Harstad. 3100 tons, 83 meters. Commissioned by 2005.

1 Svalbard
Svalbard. 6100 tons, 103 meters. Commissioned by 2002.

3 Norkapp Type 320
(Norkapp, Senja, Andennes). 2200 tons, 105 meters, commissioned by 1981/1982, to remain in service until 2020.

+/- 5 Fisheries Patrol Vessels
1 Tromso
(Tromso). 2100 tons, 70 meters, commissioned by 1996.

1 Alesund
(Alesund). 1400+ tons, 63+ meters. Commissioned by 1996.

1 Stern Haul Lafjord
(
Stern Haul Lafjord), 1800 tons, 55+ meters. Commissioned by 1978.

1 Malene Ostervold
(
Malene Ostervold), 1600 tons, 69+ meters (1965 built), acquired by 2002.

1 Nordsjobas ?

1 Barentshav
(Barentshav). 3200 tons, 93 meters. Commissioned by 2009. 2 others ships planned (Bergen, Sortland).

NORWEGIAN COASTAL DEFENCE +/- 160
Torpedoes Battery:
3 Battery with +/- 18 torpedoes.
Missiles Battery: 5 Battery with +/- 30 tactical missiles.
Guns Battery: 6 x 75mm; 3 x 120mm guns Coastal fortress located at Oslofjord.

NAVAL HOME GUARD +/- 4900 reservist on mobilisation
- Up to 235 Small Crafts (of wich 77 less than 100 tonnes, many RHIB 's ?). Uncertain data.

NORWEGIAN NAVAL AVIATION
Helico
- 6 Lynx Mk86 (manned by Norwegian Air Force), to be replaced by few NH-90 ? in a near future...

Next fleet review/editorial: Four Fleet Reviews !!! Future of the "Bahraini", "Omani", "Qatari", & "Emirates" Navies.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Finnish Navy

The Paramount of the "Small Scall Coastal Warfare"

I am still lack time to find additionnal data about the smaller crafts :(

Cartography
Of the entire Finnish land aera, 31,560 km² (or 10%) were of water (Rivers/Lakes).
Coastline: 1,126 km (excludes islands and coastal indentations).

Personnal Strenght +/- 4100
(2000 conscript included).

Up to 6 ? newer corvette/Frigates ?
Next generation's Finnish surface combatant, bigger than the current missile crafts & more capable for international co-operation, is in pre-development stage. The new class of multi-purpose naval vessels, dubbed MTA 2020 in the preliminary papers, is intended to replace Hämeenmaa and Pohjanmaa class minelayers and Rauma class missile boats as they are retired, likely around 2018/2022.

+/- 8 Fast Attack Missiles Crafts
4 Hamina
(Hamina, Tornio, Hanko, Pori). 250 tons, 51 meters. Commissioned by 1998/2006, with probable +/- 30 year of service expected, to be retired around 2028/2036.

4 Rauma
(Rauma, Raahe, Porvoo, Naantali). 240+ tons, 48+ meters. Commissioned by 1990/1992, modernised by 2010-2013, with probable +/- 30 year of service, to be retired around ? 2020/2022.

Mine-Warfare Ships
2 Hameenmaa (Minelayers/Escort)
(Hämeenmaa, Uusimaa). 1400+ tons, 77+ meters. Commissioned by 1992, heavily modernised by 2006/2008 (newer gun, helico platform aft...), likely to remain in service until late 2020's.

1 Pohjanmaa
(Pohjanmaa). 1400+ tons, 78+ meters. Commissioned by 1979.

3 Pansio
(Pansio, Pyhäranta, Porkkala). 650+ tons, 43 meters. Commissioned by 1991/1992.

6 Kuha
(Kuha 1-6). 130+ tons, 31+ meters. Commissioned by 1975, to be retired by early 2010’s by the Katanpää-class.

7 Kiiski
(Kiiski 1-7). 20 tons, 15+ meters. Commissioned by 1975. (Unmanned radio controlled mine sweeping crafts).

Up to 3 Katanpää-class mine-countermeasure vessels
(Katanpää , Purunpää , third ship not yet named). 680 tons, 52+ meters, to be commissioned by 2011/2012 and to remain in service until 2040/2042.

2 Coastal ASW Crafts
2 Kiisla
(Kiisla, Kurki). 280 tons, 48+ meters. Commissioned by 1984/1988 (in the Finnish Coast Guards), transferred by 2002/2004.

+/- 9 Command Launch Crafts
4 Syoksy (command launch)
(Syoksy, Jymy, Raju, Vinha).

3 Trasko
(Trasko, Torso, Alskar).

1 Askeri
(Askeri).

1 Kemio
(Kustaanmeikka).

Severals dozens ? of Small Amphibious Crafts
+/- 38 ? Urmo Landing Crafts
U-601/638.

Uisko landing crafts
U 200's, U300's, U400's serie's.

+/- 35 G-Class
(G-101/135).

+/- 11 L-100 class
(L-101/106; L-108/113).

+/- 22 Coastal Transports/Coastal Crafts
2 Lohi
(Lohi, Lohm).

6 Hauki
(Hauki, Havouri, Hirsala, Hankoniemi, Hakuni, Houtskar).

4 Hila
(Hila, Haruna, Hasto, Hogsara).

2 Kala
(Kala 4, Kala 6).

5 Valas
(Valas, Mursu, Vahakari, Vaarlahti, Vano).

3 Kampela
(Kamplea 1-3).

2 Coastal Tugs
2 Haukippa
(Haukipaa, Kallanpaa).

+/- 7 Training Crafts
2 Lokki
(Lokki, Kajava).

2 Heikki
(H1, H3).

3 Fabian Wrede
(Fabian Wrede, Wilhelm Carpelan, Axel Von Fersen).

2 Pollution Control Vessels
Louhi.
Built by 2010/2011 (Minelaying capable).

Halli.
Uncertain data ?

Others Auxiliaries
2 Cable Ships
(K-410/411).

Finnish Coastal Defence
Anti-Ships Missiles
- Spike-ER (carried by coastal infantry).
- RSB-15 Mk3 (Truck carried).

Coastal Artillery:
Fixed Guns: +/- 56 100mm/56 TK (Tank Turrets).
Mobile Guns: +/- 30 130mm/53 TK; +/- 72 130mm/K54; maybe few 130mm K90/60 ?

Finnish Naval Aviation
Aircrafts
- 1 F-27 Maritime Enforcer (ASW).
- 2 DO-228 (Maritime survey, used by Frontier Guards).

Helico
- Some AS-332 Super-Puma, Bel 206 and Bel 412 able to be used as a naval helico (SAR, Survey...).

Finnish Frontier Guards +/- 3100 (Air/Land/Sea both included)
- Up to 6 Off-Shore Patrol Vessels ?
- Up to 60 small crafts (RHIB's, IPV's) ?

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Jul 8, 2011

Future of the Pakistani Navy

At a crossroads...

Cartography
Of the entire Pakistani land aera, 2.87 % were of water (Rivers/Lakes).
Coastline: 1,046-kilometers (650 mi), EEZ of +/- 235,999 km2 (240,000 sq mi).

Personnal Strenght +/- 24 000
(included 1400 marines & 2000 Maritime Security Agency)


+/- 8/10 Frigates

Up to 4 ? newer Frigates
Expected to be received by 2015+. The 3 main serious options considered by the Pakistanis were:
- Buy 2 second-hands (but very young !) Chinese Type 054 Frigates (F-525/526).
- Buy 3 or 4 Improved F-22P (Tentatively named “F-23P”, These may be an improved variant incorporating features of the Type 054A frigates...).

- Buy 3 or 4 Chinese Type 054A Frigates (dubious because these FFG was “the state of the art” of Chinese fleet and it is highly dubious than the Chinese take a risk to see some of these latest technology to fell into US hands…)
- Buy 3 or 4 second-hands Chinese Type 053 H’s FFG.
As usual, Wait & See...

4 Zulfiquar
(Zulfiquar, Shamsheer, Saif, Aslat). 2500/3100 tons, 123 meters (Chinese F22P FFG design). Commissioned by 2009/2013. With probable +/- 30 year of service expected, to be retired by 2040/2045.

1 Alamgir
(Alamgir). 4100 tons, 138 meters (Ex 1980’s US O.H Perry FFG). Transferred by 2010, to remain in Pakistani service for at least 10/15 mores year, until mid 2020’s. Maybe few others O.H Perry expected during 2010’s to be transferred from the US Navy ?

6 Tariq
(Tariq, Babur, Khaibar, Badr, Shah Jahan, Tippu Sultan). 3200/3700 tons, 117 meters (ex British type 21). Transferred by 1993/1994, now ageing ships, likely to be progressively retired through 2010’s.

+/- 5 Submarines
From 3 to Up to 6 newer SSK’s ?
Since mid 2000's, the Pakistan Navy plans to buy 3 to 6 new submarines to replace the ageing Agosta 70’s SSK. After considering many SSK designs (Hispano/French Scorpene, French Marlin SSK’s, German Type 214…). Currently rumors talk about the possible purchase of up to 6 Chinese SSK’s
- Maybe up to 6 newer 3000+ tons “Qing” submarines (unlikely, because this Chinese SSK was "too newer").
- Maybe up to 6 newer Type 041 Yan SSK's. (Dubious, but not impossible).
- Maybe the sale of a handful of “second-hands” but still capable Chinese SSK’s (Type 039 Song's).
As usual, wait & see…

3 Agosta 90B
(Khalid, Saad, Hamza). 1250/1750 tons, 67+ meters (French Agosta 90 SSK design). Commissioned by 1999/2008.

2 Agosta 70
(Hasmat, Hurmat). 1200/1700 tons, 67+ meters (French Agosta 70 SSK design). Commissioned by 1979/1980.

3 Midget Submarine
3 MG-110
110+ tons, 27+ meters (Italian design). Commissioned by 1988+

+/- 6 Fast Attack Missiles Crafts
Up to 2 newer 500 FAC
500 tons, ordered from China by late 2010, likely to be completed by 2011/2012…

2 Jalalat II
(Jalalat, Shujaat). Commissioned by 1997/1999

1 Larkana
(Larkana). first ever indigenously designed and developed fast patrol craft by Pakistan Naval Dockyard. Commissioned by 1994.

1 Rajshahi
(Rajshahi). 115/140 tons, 36+ meters (1960’s British built). Commissioned by 1966, now fully obsolete ship, to be replaced by a newer Chinese built craft by early 2010’s.

Status of 2 others FAC unclear ? (Jurat or Jurrat ?, Quwwat or Guwwat ?)
- Maybe Jurat/Jurrat was a former chinese "Hegu" or "Hoku" ? (a Chinese version of the Russian "Komar") FAC ?, transferred by 1981.
- Maybe Quwwat/Guwwat was a former Chinese "Huangfen" FAC (a Chinese version of the Russian "Osa I"),? Transferred by 1984 ?

3 Mine-Hunters
3 Eridan
(Mujahid, Munsif, Muhafiz). 530/600 tons, 51+ meters (European Tripartite MCM design). Commissioned by 1992/1998, with probable +/- 30 year of life expected, to be retired around +/- 2022/2028.

Mid-Shore & In-Shore Patrol Boats

2 MRTP 33
(Zarrar, Karrar). Up to 6 others crafts were planned ?

2 MRTP 15
(01-02). Turkish built IPV.


12 Gulf patrol Crafts.
Uncertain data ?

5 patrol Crafts
(US Built). Delivered by 2010, uncertain data ?

Small Amphibious Crafts
12 Overcrafts
(12 Griffon).

+/- 8 Auxiliary Ships
1 Fuqing (Fleet Tanker)
(Nasr). (Chinese AO design). Commissioned by 1987.

1 Poolster (Fleet Tanker)
(Moawin). (ex 1960’s Dutch AO). Transferred by 1994.

2 Coastal Tanker
(Kalmat, Gwadar). 1400 tons, 62+ meters. Commissioned by 1984/1992.

1 Behr Paima (hydrographic survey vessel)
(Behr E Paima). Japanese built. Commissioned by 1982.

1 Behr Khusha (Dredging vessel)
(Behr Khusha). 2000’s Chinese built. Transferred by 2008.

1 Attock (Small Tanker).
600/1200 tons, 54 meters, built by 1957.

2 others Auxiliary crafts
250 tons, 38 meters, built by 2003/2004.

6 Harbor Tugs
2 Rustom (harbor tugs)
(Rustom, Joshila). 200+ tons, 25 meters, built by 2001.

2 Bholu (habor tugs)
(Bholu, Gama). 265 tons, 26 meters, built by 1991.

2 Janbaz (habor tugs)
(Janbaz, Delair). 280+ tons, 35 meters. Commissioned by 1990/2000.


PAKISTANI MARITIME SECURITY AGENCY
6 Mid Shore Patrol Vesselss
4 Barkat
(Barkat, Nusrat, Rehmat, Vehdat). 400 tons, 58 meters (Chinese Hainan PB design). Commissioned by 1990.

2 Shanghai II
(Sabqat, Rafaqat). 120+ tons, 38+ meters (Chinese Shangai II PB design). Transferred by 1972/1973, now fully obsolete crafts.

PAKISTANI COAST GUARD
5 In Shore Patrol Vessels
1 Saif
(Saif). 32 tons, 20 meters (South Korean Swallow craft design). Built by 1986.

4 Saas
(Saad, Shabaz, Waqir, Burq). 22+ tons, 16+ meters (Italian MV 55 PB design). Built by 1987.

PAKISTANI CUSTOMS SERVICE CRAFTS
18 In Shore Patrol Vessels
18 MV 55
(P 551-568). 22+ tons, 16+ meters (Italian MV 55 PB design).

PAKISTANI MARINES +/- 1400

NAVAL AVIATION
Aicrafts
- +/- 7 P-3C Orion (Maritime Patrol)
- 7 Fokker F27-200 Friendship
- 4 Hawker 850 (transport)
- 2 Breguet Atlantique I (maybe a third unserviceable ?)
- +/- 13 Mirage IIIEP and 10 Mirage V PA3 with AM-39 anti-ship missiles capable

Helicopters
- 3 Lynx Mk3 (maybe 3 others unserviceable)
- 6 Sea-King Mk 45 (ASW)
- 6 to 8 SA-319 Alouette III (2 SA-319B & 4 SA-316…)
- 12 Z-9EC (ASW)

Pakistan Navy is trying to gradually upgrade its fleet. Its strategy of acquisition (Europeans, Americans, Chinese ships ...) shows that Pakistan does not want to "put all their eggs in one basket".... Despite this progressive modernization, the pakistani fleet can compete with the incredible growth in its main "state enemy"...the Indian Navy. T
he recent Taliban attack on one of its major naval bases demonstrates once again that interior terrorism/tribalism remain a major threat (very likely the greatest...) of Pakistan.

Next fleet review/editorial: Two Fleet Review !!! "Future of the Norwegian Navy" & "Future of the Finnish Navy".

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Jul 1, 2011

Future of the Colombian Navy

Between a small oceanic squadron and a large "Mosquito Fleet" for Rivers use...

Cartography
Of the entire Colombian land aera, 928,660 km2 were of water (Rivers/Lakes).

Coastlines: 3,208 km (Caribbean-Sea 1,760 km, North-Pacific Ocean 1,448 km), and a EEZ of 817,816 km2
.

Personnal Strenght +/- 22 000
(15 000 and 7 000 conscript) + 4800 reserve


4 Frigates

4 Almirante Padilla

(Almirante Padilla, Caldas, Antioquia, Independiente). 1600 tons, 95 meters. Commissioned by 1983/1984. With probable +/- 30 year of service expected, to be retired during 2010’s and replaced by ???

2 Submarines

2 Type 209/1200

(Pijao, Tayrona). 1100+ tons, 56 meters, commissioned by 1975. With probable +/- 30 year of service expected, now ageing units, likely to be retired during 2010’s.

Few Midget Submarine
2 SX-506

(Intrepido, Indomable). 58+ tons, 23 meters, commissioned by 1974. Now ageing units, likely to be retired during 2010’s.


Few Manned Torpedo
(Triunfante, Atrevida, Emprendedora, Rayo, Defensora, Protectora, Poderosa). Uncertain data ?

InShore Patrol Vessels

11 US PBR Mk-II
(Rio Magdalena, Il Rio Cauca, Rio Atrato, Rio Sinu, Rio San Jorge, Rio Putumayo, Rio Caqueta, Rio Orinoco, Rio Orteguaza, Rio Vichada, Rio Guaviare). 9 tons, 9+ meters (late 1960’s US built), transferred by 1989/1993.

+/- 133 "22 foot" Piranha
1+ tons, 6+ meters. US/Colombian built. 1 transferred by 1990, 3 transferred by 1991, up to 51 transferred by 1993, and around +/- 78 others US built or Colombian ? built by 1997.


+/- 41 ? Anguila
22 foot small craft,
nearly similar to the Piranha class. Built by 1993-present

For the Piranha/Anguila IPV, a firm number is difficult to establish due to combat & service losses, some hulls may have been rebuilt locally, as well as it's likely additional batches have been acquired, and/or added to via configuration of locally built hulls with foreign-bought higher-end components...


Others patrol Boats, uncertain data ?
2 Senen Alberto Araujo
(Senen Alberto Araujo, Guillermo Londono Vargas). Uncertain data ?

1 Mario Alonso Villegas
(Mario Alonso Villegas). Uncertain data ?

2 Tony Pastrana Contreras

(Tony Pastrana Contreras, Jorge Moreno Salazar). Built by 2004/2005 ?

3 Juan Ricardo Oyola Vera
(Juan Ricardo Oyalo Vera, Freddy Alexander Perez Rodriguez, Edic Cristian Reyes Holguin). Built by 2006/2009.

A newer serie of small patrol crafts (40 foot) was currently under study/underway ?

Medium/Small Amphibious Crafts

7 LCU-1466
(Morrosquillo, Bahia Honda, Bahia Potrete, Bahia Solanco, Bahia Cupica, Bahia Utria, Bahia Malaga). 180+ tons, 35 meters (US LCU 1950’s built). Transferred by 1990/1992.

2 Ocho de Octubre (LCP)
(Ocho de Octubre, Veintisiete de Octubre). 6 tons, 13+ meters. Commissioned by 1992.

2 Sea Truck (LCVP)

(Jamie Rook, Manuela Saenz). 9 tons, 12+ meters. Commissioned by 1989/1990.

4 (LCVP
)
(Altair, Castor, Pollux, Vega). 13 tons, 11 meters (ex US LCVP). Transferred by 1993.

Various Auxiliaries Ships

2 Malpelo (Oceanographic Research Ship)
(Providencia, Malpelo). 1000+ tons, 50 meters. Commissioned by 1981.

2 Type 701A (Patrol Boat Tenders)
(Cartagena De Indias, Buenaventura). 1800+ tons, 104 meters (ex German 1960’s auxiliary ships). Transferred by 1997/1998.

1 Gorgona (Hydrographic Survey Ship)

(Gorgona). 560 tons, 41+ meters (former mid 1950’s lighthouse tender).

1 Quindio (Hydrographic Survey Ship)
(Quindio). 380 tons, 40+ meters (ex US 1940’s hydrographic ship). Transferred by 1964.

1 Floatting Dry Dock/Submarine Tender
(Mayor Jaime Arias). 700 tons, 42 meters. Mainly used as a tender/Base for the 2 colombian midgets subs.

1 admiral Yacht
(Contralmirante Bell Salter). Unreliable data ?

1 Cienaga (buoy tender)
(Cienaga). 160 tons, 21 meters. Commissioned by 1997.

1 LCPL Mk-II (Various role ?)
9+ tons, 10+ meters. (Ex 1960’s US LCPL transferred by 1993).

1 Teniente Ricardo Sorzano
(Teniente Ricardo Sorzano). 70 tons, 20+ meters (ex 1940’s US harbor tug). Transferred by 1963.

1 Gloria (Sailing Training Ship)
(Gloria). 1100 tons, 76 meters. Built by 1968.

RIVERINE FLOTILLA'S

+/- 3 Mid-Shore Rivers Patrol Vessels (sometime aka "Rivers Gunboats")
1 Sargento 2 Julio Correa Hernadez (riverine patrol)

(1 Sargento 2 Julio Correa Hernadez), 120 tons, 32 meters (former riverine tug).

2 Rio-Hacha (river)

(Rio Hacha, Arauca). 170 tons, 47+ meters, commissioned by 1956.

+/- 30 In-Shore Rivers Patrol Vessels
11 ? "32 Foot" river patrol boats ?

(Magdalena, Cauca, Atrato, Sinu, San Jorge, Putumayo, Caqueta, Orinoco, Orteguaza, Vichada, Guaviare). Transferred by 1993
.

9 "40 foot" river patrol boats (river)
(Tenerife, Tarapaca, Mompox, Orocue, Calamar, Magangué, Monclart, Caucaya, Mitu). 21 tons, 12+ meters, commissioned by 1993

10 Diligente river patrols

(Diligente, Juan Lucio, Alfonso Vargas, Fritz Hagale, Vengadora, Humberto Cortes, Calibio, Carlos Galindo, Valerosa, Luchadora). 33 tons, 23 meters, built by 1952/1953.

+/- 10 ? Riverine Transports/Tenders/Tugs
2 Igaraparana (Tug-Rivers/Transport)
(Igaraârana, Mana Casias). 100+ tons, 31 meters, built by 1985/1986.

5 Capitan Castro (Riverine Tugs)
(Capitan Castro, Capitan Alvaro Ruis, Capitan Rigoberto Giraldo, Teniente Vladimir Valeck, Teniente Luis Bernal). 50 tons, 19+ meters. Built by ?

? 4 ? Nodriza (Riverine Support Lighters)
(Clo Wilson Londono, Senen Alberto Araujo, + others). 260 tons, 38+ meters. Commissioned by 2000+

Or some doubts/confusion with a lot of crafts ?
(Filigonio Hichamon, Manual Antonio Moyar, Igaraparana, Julio Correa Hernandez, Manacacias, Cotuhe, Ariari) ???

+/- 3 Riverine Hospital Crafts
2 Socorro (riverine hospital)
(Socorro, Teniente Hernando Gutierrez). 70 tons, 25 meters, commissioned by 1956.

1 rio Hacha (riverine hospital)

(Leticia). 170 tons, 47+ meters, built by 1956.
A newer serie of light riverine patrol craft (Patrullera Fluvial Ligera) was currently under study/underway.

Others various miscellaneous service crafts probable (mainly used to combat drug traffic, some crafts were captured former drug runners).

COLOMBIAN COAST GUARDS
+/- 2 Off-Shore Patrol Vessels
1 Valle de Cauca

(Valle del Cauca). 870+ tons, 64+ meters (ex 1960’s USCG Reliance PB’s). Transferred by 2003.

1 San Andrés
(San Andrés). 700/900 tons, 55 meters (ex US 180-A classbuoy tender ). Transferred by 2007.

+/- 11 Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels
1 Cormoran
(Espartana). 300+ tons, 55+ meters (ex Spanish 1980’s Cormoran patrol boat). Transferred by 1995.

2 Lazaga
(Capitan Pablo José de Porto, Jorge Enrique Marquez Duran). 275 tons, 57+ meters (ex 1970’s Spanish Lazaga PB’s). Transferred by 1997/1998.

2 Asheville

(Albuquerque, Quitasueso). 225 tons, 50 meters (ex 1960’s US Asheville PB’s). Transferred by 1983.

2 Juan Nepomuceno Eslava

(José Maria Garcia de Toledo, Juan Nepomuceno Eslava). 130+ tons, 35+ meters. Commissioned by 1994.

2 110 foot (Swiftships 110)
(José Maria Palas, Medardo Monzon). 100 tons, 33+ meters. Built by 1989/1990.

2 105 foot (Swiftships 105)
(C.N Rafael del Castillo y rada, Jaime Cardenas Gomez). 100+ tons, 31+ meters. Built by 1983
.

+/- 28 In-Shore Patrol Vessels
21 261-B
(Antares, Acuario, Aldebaran, Aries, Alphéraz, Bellatrix, Canopus, Capella, Capricornio, Denes, Denebola, Escorpion, Geminis, Leo, Libra, Piscis, Procyon, Rigel, Spica, Tauro, Tulcan). 5 tons, 7+ meters. Built by 1992/1993.

2 Sen Spectre Mk III
(Jaime Gomez Castro, Juan Nepomuceno Pena). 28+ tons, 19+ meters (US 1970’s PB’s). Transferred by 1990.

4 82 Foot

(Cabo Corrientes, Cabo Manglares, Cabo Tiburon, Cabo de la Vela). 64+ tons, 25+ meters (ex US 1960’s Point PB’s). Transferred by 2000/2001

1 LCM 8

(Sapzurio). 34+ tons, 22+ meters (ex US LCM8). Transferred by 1993.

+ likely at least few dozens of additional very small crafts (Go-Fast, RHIB & so) for Drug Interdiction & special force use…

COLOMBIAN MARINES +/- 23 000

Armored Transport Vehicles: 20 BTR-80.


NAVAL AVIATION +/- 100
(up to 200 ?)
Aircrafts

- 5 Aero Commander (Utility Transport).
- 1 CASA-212 (Transport)
- Up to 3 Casa 235-200N (Maritime Patrol).
- 2 or 3 Cessna 206 (utility).
- 2 Gavilan 358 (Utility).
- 3 Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee (Utility)
.
- 2 PA-31 Navajo or ? 4 Piper PA-34 (Utility).
- 2 Rockwell Commander 206 (Uncertain status ?).

Helicopers
- 1 Bell 212 transport (Uncertain status ?).

- 4 or 5 Bell 412 (Transport).
- 2 Bo 105 (ASW or Uutility ?).
- 2 AS 555SN Fennec (ASW or Utility ?).

Colombian Navy is facing various threats:
- "
Sporadic tensions" with Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru.
- And c
ontinuous internal threats (very large drugs traffic, revolutionary-groups, high-corruption, high-poverty). Expecially the corruption is dangerous because it is highly probable that sometimes some military equipment (vehicles, aircrafts, helico, naval crafts) contribute to drug smuggling........As for the Peruvian Navy, many ships are old (1970's/1980's). Their replacement will become urgent by the end of this decade (only some small crafts and Colombian Coast Guards Crafts were still +/- "young" (1990's/early 2000's)).

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Pakistani Navy

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially for the auxiliary and smaller ships), then SAID IT ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !