SDF receives four new patrol boats from Bahrain |20 June 2023
The Seychelles Defence Forces has received four new fast response patrol boats from King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain.
The handing over ceremony took place last Saturday morning at the Coast Guard base, Perseverance.
The ocean boat 41s is a 12.5 metre long boat constructed and developed in the United Arab Emirates. It is powered with triple mercury 350 pro outboard engines, giving a maximum of 1200 horsepower reaching up to speeds of 55 knots. The 1,000-Iitre fuel tank boat may cruise up to estimated distances of 100 Nm back and forth. The ocean boat consists of a robust cockpit, incorporating a marine radio, latest Garmin GPS and radar system which will facilitate the smooth running of the coast guards’ operations.
When addressing the guests, the ambassador of Bahrain to Seychelles, Sheikh Khalid Bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, described the day as a remarkable occasion, which filled him with “tremendous pride and immense gratitude”.
He highlighted the two nations’ commitment to preserve the oceans and promote sustainable development, while fostering a spirit of cooperation and goodwill.
Furthermore, Sheik Al Khalifa said he believed that Seychelles and Bahrain can jointly navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
“We are confident that our cooperation in areas such as maritime security, disaster response, and environmental conservation will be further strengthened. May this boat always sail as a symbol of our enduring friendship and may the warm winds of cooperation and understanding continue to propel our nations towards a brighter and more prosperous future.”
Speaking on behalf of the SDF, the Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier Michael Rosette, said the handing over of the boats strengthens the deepening bond between the two nations and he expressed appreciation to His Majesty.
He also recounted the historic State visit by former President Danny Faure to Bahrain in 2020, whereby the Kingdom pledged its unwavering support to Seychelles in its maritime security efforts, exemplified by the commitment to donate two patrol boats. Although unforeseen circumstances stemming from the global Covid-19 pandemic led to some delays in the boats’ construction, Brigadier Rosette stated that “today we stand proud as His Majesty fulfils his promise by presenting us with four fast response boats”.
Furthermore, Brigadier Rosette added that the handing over was also a testament to the mutual understanding of maritime interests and protecting the shared seas.
“As coastal nations, Bahrain and Seychelles understand the criticality of maintaining a strong maritime presence and the importance of continuous improvement in our maritime capabilities,” he exclaimed.
“With the addition of these four fast response boats to the Seychelles Coast Guard’s fleet, we are significantly enhancing our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to various maritime incidents, ensuring safety and security of our waters.”
He went on to note that the state-of-the-art boats possess remarkable manoeuvrability, speed, and versatility, making them indispensable assets in a range of operations including harbour and coastal patrols, search and rescue missions, monitoring and surveillance activities, and rapid response to marine accidents.
“The donation underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing maritime threats that transcend borders. By working together, sharing information, and strengthening our collective capabilities, we can effectively combat piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities that endanger our maritime security.”
During the ceremony, Nasser Bin Abdul Rahman Al Khalifa presented a gift from Bahrain’s Minister of Interior, to President Ramkalawan.
He handed over the boat certificates and other technical documents to Brigadier Rosette who received it on behalf of the Seychelles government.
The guests on Saturday were also able to experience the boat through a short outing.
The boats were also blessed by retired Lieutenant Colonel, Chaplain Louis Agathine.
Following the handing over ceremony, President Ramkalawan received the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Sheikh Nasser bin Abdul Rahman Al Khalifa and his delegation accompanied by Bahrain’s ambassador to Seychelles, Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa to State House for a courtesy call, where the head of State personally reiterated his gratitude to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for the kind donation of the four patrol boats to the Seychelles Defence Forces.
Their discussion focused on what both countries have been able to achieve so far in terms of bilateral cooperation and how best they can further collaborate to enhance the cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The accompanying photos show some highlights of the handing over ceremony on Saturday.
Sunny Esparon /State House press release
Photos by Louis Toussaint
