The Algerian mine countermeasures vessel El-Kasseh 1 is undergoing sea trials ahead of delivery by Intermarine later this year.
El-Kasseh 1 (501) was seen off La Spezia, Italy, on 21 March. The vessel was launched by Italian shipyard Intermarine on 5 April 2016.
Algeria’s order for the vessel emerged in late 2014 when it was confirmed that it had signed a contract for a single vessel, plus an option for a second.
According to IHS Jane’s, Orizzonte Sistemi Navali is acting as prime contractor, while Intermarine is carrying out most of the work as a subcontractor. Construction commenced at Intermarine in early 2014.
According to IHS Jane’s, the vessels is based on the Katanpaa class vessels built for the Finnish Navy. It is believed to have a hull based on a monocoque single skin glass reinforced plastic design and is around 50 metres in length. Based on Katanpaa specifications, the vessels has a displacement of nearly 700 tons, a speed of 13 knots and accommodation for more than 30 people. Main armament is likely to be a 40 mm cannon, while the vessel should be able to launch mine detection and disposal vehicles.
