Khareef-class

The Khareef class consists of three corvettes commissioned for the Royal Navy of Oman. The acquisition was finalized as part of a £400 million agreement. Construction of the lead vessel began with its launch in July 2009, followed by the subsequent ships in July 2010 and June 2011. During the evaluation phase in March 2012, a gun misfire occurred during testing off the Dorset coast, resulting in injuries to technical personnel. All three units are currently in active service within the Omani fleet.

These corvettes are configured as multi-role combatants powered by diesel engines. The class features a comprehensive sensor suite, including a 3D S-band multibeam radar and a dedicated combat management system for tactical coordination. Weaponry is integrated via an electro-optic weapons director, controlling a main gun, secondary cannons, and vertical launch surface-to-air missiles. The ships also carry surface-to-surface missiles for anti-ship engagements. For extended maritime operations, the vessels are equipped with an enclosed hangar and facilities to support a medium helicopter.

The Royal Navy of Oman utilizes the Khareef class for a wide spectrum of maritime missions. Primary operational roles include the protection of exclusive economic zones and maritime areas of interest through extended surveillance patrols. The ships are intended to serve as a deterrent during periods of regional tension and are configured for full interoperability with joint and coalition forces. Beyond combat and surveillance, the class is deployed for special operations, search and rescue missions, and maritime disaster relief efforts.