China donates patrol vessel to Seychelles
New fast interceptor craft commissioned
SEYCHELLES: As mentioned in President Wavel Ramkalawan’s State of the Nation Address earlier this month, the People’s Republic of China has followed through on their commitment to donate a patrol vessel to the Seychelles Coast Guard.
The handover ceremony was held last week and attended by President Ramkalawan, Chinese Ambassador to Seychelles Lin Nan, Commissioner of Police Ted Barbe, ministers, dignitaries, members of the Defence Forces council and military personnel from both the SDF and Chinese Armed Forces.
The fast interceptor vessel, Andromache, has been designed for coastal and offshore defence duties, patrol as well as day and night surveillance. She is adapted for high-speed interception in anti-terrorism, anti-smuggling, light intensity military operation scenarios as well as for the protection of coastal and offshore waters.
The 46m vessel is equipped with four engines and four propellers that allow her to reach maximum speeds of 30 knots. Cruising at 15 knots, she is capable of achieving a range of 1,000 nautical miles.
As per naval traditions, the Commander in Chief handed over the National Flag to Capt Leon to hoist aboard the patrol Ship, This was followed by prayers and blessings by the Force Chaplain, Lt Col Louis Agathine.
447