NEWTOWN, Conn. - The Chinese Wuchang shipbuilding group has completed sea trials for the F 91 offshore patrol vessel being built for the Nigerian navy.
In April 2012, Nigeria signed a deal with China Shipbuilding and Offshore International Company for two P-18N OPVs for $42 million. The first vessel (F 91) was built entirely in China, while 50-70 percent of the second vessel will be built in Nigeria in an effort to enhance local shipbuilding capabilities and provide technology transfer. The vessels are based on the Type 056 corvette in service with the People's Liberation Army Navy. The vessels are 95 meters long and have a speed of 21 knots. They are armed with one 76mm and two 30mm guns, and can accommodate a crew of 70. They will be able to carry and support a helicopter off a rear deck.
The F 91 was launched in January 2014 and is expected to arrive before the end of 2014. The second will also arrive by the end of 2014 and is expected to be completed by early 2015.