Navy Signs MoU for Remodelling

The Nigerian Navy has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dearsan Shipyard Turkey to remodel NNS ARADU as part of the government’s efforts to modernize its fleet.

Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, the Chief of Naval Staff, announced the signing of the MoU on Tuesday, highlighting the aim of enhancing the Navy’s capabilities for improved security in Nigeria’s maritime domain.

The MoU signifies the revitalization of the partnership between the Nigerian Navy and Dearsan Shipyard, promoting collaboration to enhance security measures and bolstering operations and shipbuilding endeavours.

These initiatives will contribute to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy, ensuring the nation’s prosperity.

Commissioned as the Flag Ship in 1985, NNS ARADU has played a significant role in various naval operations and exercises within Africa and beyond. It is one of the five MEKO 360 Frigates constructed in Germany for the Argentine and Nigerian Navies.

However, the vessel has undergone wear and tear due to prolonged use and challenging operating conditions.

Vice Admiral Gambo expressed gratitude for the continuous support of the Nigerian government, particularly the Senate committee dedicated to the rehabilitation of NNS ARADU.

The collaboration with Dearsan Shipyard marks the beginning of refurbishing and modernizing Nigeria’s flagship. Additionally, an agreement has been reached to procure an additional 57-meter Fast Attack Craft to support the remodelled flagship.

The introduction of these two vessels will expand the naval fleet and strengthen the Nigerian Navy’s capacity for maritime security operations, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic prosperity of Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

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Vice Admiral Gambo emphasized that the decision to partner with Dearsan Shipyard was based on its outstanding reputation in high-quality shipbuilding and its commitment to meeting agreed-upon timelines.

He also highlighted that Dearsan Shipyard is constructing two High Endurance 76-meter Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Nigerian Navy in Turkey.

Furthermore, Vice Admiral Gambo noted that many of the equipment, auxiliaries, and subsystems used in constructing the offshore patrol vessels would be fitted on board NNS ARADU.

This approach aims to enhance operational efficiency and standardization, ensuring seamless maintenance to prolong the lifespan of the remodelled flagship.