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PHOTOS: Croatia strengthens naval defence with new vessel

Umag ship

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

Split, 17 January 2025 – Croatia marked a significant step in strengthening its naval defence with the official handover and naming of the new coastal patrol vessel OOB-32 Umag.

The ceremony took place at the “Admiral Sveto Letica-Barba” barracks in Split.

The Umag is the second coastal patrol vessel for the Croatian Coast Guard, following the prototype OOB-31 Omiš, and the first in a planned series of five vessels.

This project aims to bolster Croatia’s maritime security and defence capabilities.

Umag ship

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

A Strategic Priority for Defence

The development and delivery of the Umag mark the successful continuation of a long-term initiative prioritised by Defence Minister Ivan Anušić. Upon taking office, Minister Anušić identified the unblocking and completion of this strategic project as a primary goal.

The series of vessels represents a €13.2 million investment, aligning with Croatia’s commitment to modernising its armed forces while collaborating with local companies.

“This vessel is just the beginning of the modernisation of the Croatian Navy,” said Minister Anušić. “We are also launching the procurement of a multipurpose corvette, which will further enhance our naval capabilities.”

Umag ship

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

The minister also highlighted Croatia’s commitment to allocating 2% of its GDP to defence, ensuring the nation’s security and territorial integrity.

Advancing Maritime Security

Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid, expressed confidence in the Umag’s ability to elevate maritime security and border protection.

“This vessel enhances the Coast Guard’s operational capabilities and reflects the technological progress of the Croatian Navy,” Kundid stated.

Umag ship

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

Commander of the Croatian Navy, Commodore Damir Dojkić, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the vessel’s critical role in monitoring and controlling Croatia’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.

Technical Capabilities of OOB-32 Umag

The 43.16-metre-long vessel is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including:

• A remotely controlled 30-mm automatic cannon.

• Two 12.7-mm machine guns and four portable anti-aircraft missile systems.

• Advanced surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging, and night-vision binoculars.

• Full nuclear, biological, and chemical protection with hermetic sealing and decontamination capabilities.

The Umag accommodates a crew of 17 and can operate autonomously for up to ten days, reaching speeds of 28 knots powered by dual 2,525-kW engines.

Umag ship

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

Honouring Croatia’s Naval Heritage

The vessel’s name was unveiled by Danijela Radeka Paljuh, daughter of Valter Radeka, the first Croatian Navy member from Istria to fall in the line of duty.

The ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including representatives from the government, military, and Brodosplit, the shipyard responsible for the vessel’s construction.

Umag ship

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

The Umag represents a crucial enhancement to Croatia’s ability to safeguard its maritime interests, showcasing the nation’s dedication to a strong and modern naval force.

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