Posted on 05/07/2016 3:08:09 AM PDT by sukhoi-30mki
The first Mistral-class LHD Gamal Abdel Nasser (hull number L1010, the former Vladivostok initially intended for the Russian Navy), purchased by Egypt after the cancellation of the contract with Russia went out to sea for the first time with an Egyptian crew for a week of training.
Egyptian Navy Mistral-class LHD Gamal Abdel Nasser sailing out of Saint-Nazaire with an Egyptian crew aboard for the first time. Picture taken on 06/05/2016. Source: www.facebook.com/EgyptMilitary
180 Egyptian Navy sailors are reported to be aboard the vessel. A second series of formation at sea is set to take place on the second half of May. The Gamal Abdel Nasser is set to sail to its homeport in Egypt in June this year.
The second unit, Anwar al-Sadat (hull number L1020, the former Sevastopol) is expected to start sea trials and training from Saint-Nazaire in August this year and sail to Egypt in September 2016.
In early August 2015, France and Russia reached an agreement for the non delivery of the 2 Mistral class LHDs originally ordered in June 2011. It was officially announced in September 2015 that Egypt would acquire the two Mistral LHDs originally intended for Russia.
Regarding the amphibious means associated with the LHDs, DCNS will deliver four new generation LCUs (CTM NG). These were designed by the Group as part of an integrated amphibious force system organized around the Mistral ships. Two landing catamaran (L-CAT / EDAR) designed and built by CNIM will also be delivered.
Mistral class vessels are capable of carrying 16 helicopters, four landing craft, 70 armored vehicles and 450 soldiers.
That Gripen would still require arresting gear. The lack of an angled deck would make the whole concept very difficult.
Day/month/year
...Gator navy ping....
Yes, hence my comment of it being STOL not VTOL.
It’s STOBAR, not STOVL
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