Qatar’s investment in maritime security is paying off with the delivery of a new naval ship from a Turkish shipyard in October 2020.
The Al Doha QTS-91, built at Anadolu Shipyard in Istanbul, is one of the largest training ships in the world, designed for search and rescue operations and maritime patrols. The ship displaces 2,150 tons and can hold 150 Sailors and naval cadets.
The Qatar Emiri Navy bought the ship as part of a larger deal signed during the 2018 Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference.
Qatar held a ceremony to mark the delivery of Al Doha QTS-91. It was attended by dignitaries such as Qatari Defense Minister Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, Qatari Ambassador to Turkey Salem bin Mubarak Al Shafi and several high-ranking Qatari military officers.
To enhance maritime security and secure its 563-kilometer coastline, Qatar has signed several contracts to buy armaments from Turkish firms. In 2014, the Qatari Coast Guard ordered 17 military vessels, and in 2018, another nine.
The Coast Guard is charged with search and rescue missions at sea and protecting ports, maritime industries and oil and gas installations. It also provides security during popular events such as conferences and sports tournaments.
In July 2019, Qatar opened the
Al Daayen Naval Base in Simaisma,
30 kilometers from Doha on the country’s eastern coast, to expand the operational capabilities of the Coast Guard. The opening ceremony drew dignitaries such as Vice Adm. James Malloy, then commander of U.S. Naval Forces, U.S. Central Command. Sources: Naval News, Aljazeera.net