EDGE Group has announced the launch of the first-of-class (FOC) BR71 MK II Combattante corvette, named “NRA Ekuikui II”, as part of a €1 billion strategic contract with the Angolan Navy.
The vessel was launched in Cherbourg, where it was designed and built by CMN Naval, a globally recognised shipbuilder specialising in naval, commercial, and large yacht construction.
As part of the wider programme, Abu Dhabi Ship Building, a subsidiary of EDGE Group, has already delivered six 12-metre high-speed interceptor boats, along with one of five planned 16-metre interceptor vessels. These platforms form a key component of the Angolan Navy’s modernised fleet, enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities and supporting national security objectives.
David Massey, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Ship Building, stated that close collaboration with CMN Naval and international partners has enabled rapid progress on the programme. He noted that, just two years after contract signature, the first 71-metre corvette has been launched and advanced interceptor boats delivered, with two additional vessels to follow. One will be constructed by CMN Naval, while the other will be built in Abu Dhabi following a technology transfer agreement—underscoring the strength of the partnership and its commitment to bolstering Angola’s maritime security.
Meanwhile, ANAVIA is integrating the HT100 NAVAL unmanned helicopter aboard the BR71 MK II Combattante. Each corvette will be equipped with two of these Swiss-designed aerial systems, fitted with electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors and fully integrated into the ships’ combat management systems.
Ishan Sahgal, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of ANAVIA, described the HT100 as a “force multiplier” for the Angolan Navy, significantly enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities through its advanced performance and high reliability. He added that the system is supported by a dedicated control station tailored for naval operations, alongside integrated logistics and training programmes to ensure maximum operational readiness.
Construction of the second BR71 MK II corvette is currently underway at Abu Dhabi Ship Building’s facilities in the Abu Dhabi, while the third vessel is being built in Cherbourg. The programme adopts a distributed production model between the UAE and France to ensure high quality standards and accelerate delivery timelines.
The launch of the first vessel marks a significant milestone in the growing security partnership between Angola and the United Arab Emirates. In October 2025, EDGE Group signed a letter of intent with Angola’s Ministry of the Interior to implement a comprehensive border security programme.
