Namibia commissioned two Chinese-built naval patrol vessels at the harbor town of Walvis Bay on Friday.
The two attack and patrol vessels christened as Brukkaros and Daures, boast surface and undersurface targets attacking capabilities. They were donated by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army and had arrived in Namibian waters in August.
Namibian President Hage Geingob who commissioned the ships thanked China for its assistance to the southwestern African country in protecting its territory and maritime resources.
“The delivery and incorporation of the two submarine chasers into our naval fleet will add tremendous value to Namibia’s naval combat surface and under-surface capability, as well as augment the country’s maritime patrol and surveillance capability,” Geingob said.
“Our maritime economy is a major contributor to job creation and economic growth. Given our large coastline, the Navy faces a huge challenge in ensuring that it protects the country against any and all maritime threats.”
“It is therefore of paramount importance that we continue to increase our naval capabilities,” he added.