Saudi Navy Floats First Tuwaiq Combat Ship in the United States

The Royal Saudi Naval Forces have floated His Majesty King Saud, the first of four multi-mission combat ships being built under Project Tuwaiq, during a ceremony held in the state of Wisconsin in the United States. The event was attended by Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Ghuraibi, Chief of Staff of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, alongside senior Saudi and US military officials, as well as representatives from defence companies Lockheed Martin and Fincantieri.

Project Tuwaiq is described by the Royal Saudi Naval Forces as a cornerstone of its naval modernisation efforts. The programme includes four multi-mission surface combatants equipped with advanced combat systems designed to conduct a wide range of naval operations, including engagement of air, surface and subsurface targets. The ships are intended to enhance operational readiness and support the protection of Saudi Arabia’s strategic interests and maritime routes.

Beyond shipbuilding, Project Tuwaiq also covers infrastructure development at King Abdulaziz Naval Base in Jubail. This includes the establishment of advanced maintenance, training and support facilities aimed at sustaining long-term operational efficiency and combat readiness for the fleet.

Saudi-US cooperation was highlighted as a key element of the programme, reflecting broader defence and technology collaboration between the two countries. The project also aligns with Vision 2030 objectives through efforts to localise naval military industries, in coordination with the General Authority for Military Industries and the General Authority for Defence Development.