Patrol warship Al Zubara embarks on journey home to Bahrain

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s patrol warship RBNS Al Zubara has sailed from the port of Falmouth in the UK, kicking off its journey to the kingdom, passing through several ports.

A farewell ceremony was held for her and UK’s Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s ship Tamar accompanied it to the borders of British territorial waters. Al Zubara is one of the most modern and developed offshore patrol vessel (OPV) manufactured by BAE Systems, an aerospace company. It can conduct remote coastal patrol, thanks to its ability to stay for long times and in various weather conditions at sea.

Al Zubara is sailing with experienced Bahraini crewmembers that have been trained to carry out the mission of the journey home efficiently and competently, officials said.

The vessel possesses capabilities that use modern technology in the management, operation and control of its system, including the navigation and communication system, the engine and generator operating and control system, the fire control system, damage control and a combat system.

The design and engineering of the vessel provide it with strength and durability to op- erate in the worst weather conditions and during long journeys as it is supported by a helipad capable of receiving various helicopters of various weights.

Bahrain received RBNS Al Zubara from the BAE Systems at a handover ceremony in August at the HMNB Portsmouth Naval Base attended by Bahrain’s Ambassador to the UK Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and the Military Attaché in London Brigadier General Ahmed Mohammed Al Ruwaie.

The Royal Bahrain Naval Force (RBNF) has become one of the main pillars of the nation’s strength, due to the progress, development and integration of all its units and systems at various levels, thus embodying the sound visions of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander, in this regard.

With its modern combat warships, sophisticated administrative vessels, and advanced transportation and training ships, in addition to the frigate RBNS Sabha, the RBNF revives Bahrain’s ancient rich maritime history, as the country used to have one of the largest naval fleets in the region.