Fincantieri has successfully delivered the “Al Fulk,” an advanced amphibious vessel classified as a Landing Platform Dock (LPD), to Qatar’s Ministry of Defence. This cutting-edge vessel is designed for a diverse range of missions, including defense operations, ground support, and humanitarian assistance, marking a significant enhancement in Qatar’s naval capabilities.
The delivery ceremony took place with the attendance of high-profile officials, including Commander of Qatar Naval Forces, Abdullah Bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, Director of Italian Navy Military Personnel, Andrea Gueglio, and Fincantieri’s CEO, Pierroberto Folgiero. During the event, Fincantieri emphasized the innovative nature of the vessel, highlighting its state-of-the-art technologies and unique features aimed at addressing future challenges and enhancing maritime safety.
Measuring 143 meters (469 feet) in length, the Al Fulk can accommodate up to 550 personnel, providing extensive operational flexibility. It boasts a large flight deck capable of supporting multiple NH90 helicopters, a key feature that underscores its role in air-sea operations. In addition, the vessel is equipped with a spacious garage featuring two vehicle ramps and a floodable internal dock, enabling the effective deployment of landing crafts.
The construction of the Al Fulk took place at Fincantieri’s shipyards in Palermo and Muggiano. It was specifically engineered in compliance with the Rinamil regulations, which govern the classification of military vessels suited for air, sea, and land operations. The vessel was launched in 2023 as part of a significant 4-billion-euro ($4.3 billion) contract signed in 2016 between the Italian shipbuilder and Qatar. This contract encompasses the development of seven different surface vessels, signaling a robust collaboration between the two nations.
Moreover, the delivery of the Al Fulk follows the earlier completion of Qatar’s fourth Al Zubarah-class corvette, named “Semaisma,” which was delivered in May of the previous year. This consistent delivery schedule reaffirms Fincantieri’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of Qatar’s naval forces through advanced maritime technology.
