New security patrol vessels to guard offshore assets in Nigeria

Two new 35-meter offshore security patrol vessels for surveillance, intervention, and protection of offshore assets in the Gulf of Guinea have been delivered, to protect offshore oil and gas assets in Nigeria.

Incat Crowther said on Friday that the two vessels named M/V Hezekiah and M/V Lady Dora were constructed by Veecraft Marine in Cape Town, South Africa, for an undisclosed client in Lagos, Nigeria.

The company said that the two vessels will protect offshore assets of the Nigerian AGIP Exploration (NAE) company and that the security patrol vessels can also provide replenishment of crews, fuel, and potable water to the NAE offshore facilities.

The move to increase the security of oil and gas of assets with offshore security patrol vessels comes at a time of volatility in Nigeria where militants have attacked oil workers and production facilities several times in recent months. The militant attacks have resulted in kidnappings, attacks on platforms and even deaths of oil workers in Nigeria.

Specs

Incat Crowther stated that the propulsive power for the vessels is supplied by three Caterpillar C32 ACERT engines, each producing 1450hp at 2300 rpm. The vessels have a service speed of 25 knots while the electrical power is provided by two Caterpillar C4.4 generators and maneuverability is enhanced by a Hydro Armor Type 800 bow thruster.

Accommodation on the vessels provides space for 22 crew members and security personnel as well as 15 passengers. External decks provide space for transportation of supplies and also include armored positions for weapons installations.

The aft portion of the hull is fitted with an integrated rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) well with a hydraulically actuated transom door for easy deployment of an 8m fast rescue craft. The pilothouse is constructed of ballistic resistance steel and windows to provide protection to NIJ Level III.