First Patrol Vessel to Iraq

“Fateh” has started to undertake surveillance of the Iraqi Exclusive Economic Zone (58 km of coastline), research and salvage operations, maritime traffic controls – including inspections on board ships in transit – and firefighting. The remaining three vessels will be delivered at three monthly intervals.

The “Saettia MK4” class vessels have been developed from the vessels Fincantieri built for the Italian Coast Guards (five “Diciotti” class vessels) and the Maltese Navy (one vessel). Together they will form the core of the patrol fleet of the Iraqi Navy and be tasked with duties similar to those of the Italian Coast Guards. Manned by a crew of 38, the 53.40-metre-long, 8-metre-wide vessels can reach a speed of 23 knots.

The vessels have been built under the supervision of the Italian Register of Ships (Rina) in accordance with strict international standards regarding safety and respect for the environment. Fincantieri is also directly responsible for supplying the ship systems and components. The contract also comprises the provision of logistical support and crew training with each crew completing a seven weeks' training course. In cooperation with the Italian Navy there will be a week’s course held on the bridge simulator at the Academy of Leghorn.