New Page: Saudi Arabia Navy

The Royal Saudi Navy (formally known as the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, or RSNF) is the naval branch of the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces. It is tasked with protecting the kingdom’s maritime interests, securing its territorial waters, and ensuring the safety of its critical sea routes, such as those near the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. It was founded in 1960 and its headquarters are now in Riyadh as administrative center.
Naval Bases:
King Abdulaziz Naval Base in Jubail (Eastern Fleet, Arabian Gulf).
King Faisal Naval Base in Jeddah (Western Fleet, Red Sea).
This Navy was tasked with the following:
-Maritime Defense: Protects Saudi territorial waters and sea lanes.
-Securing Energy Exports: Safeguards oil and gas shipments passing through the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea.
-Counter-piracy Operations: Plays a role in combating piracy, especially in regions near the Gulf of Aden.
-Supporting Coalitions: Contributes to joint maritime operations with allied nations, particularly in the Gulf and Arabian Sea.
The RSNF is a regional blue water navy, operating a mix of capable surface vessels and also submarines, patrol boats and amphibious ships. A full spectrum including Al Riyadh-class frigates (Mod. La Fayette-class), Avante 2200 corvettes, Patrol Boats and fast attack craft as well as minesweepers and support Vessels for logistics and amphibious operations, advanced anti-ship and air defense systems, and a growing naval aviation wing with helicopters like the MH-60R Seahawk.
The Saudi Arabian Navy also called for modernization Programs with the Saudi Naval Expansion Program II (SNEP II) to upgrade the fleet with modern frigate as well as corvettes, and support ships as well as acquisition of advanced systems from the US, France, Spain.

The RSNF also engages in regular joint exercises with the United States, UK and regional partners such as the Bahrain and the UAE. The were also training agreements with Western countries ensure the RSNF remains well-prepared for modern naval warfare.
With Saudi Arabia being a leading oil exporter, the RSNF plays a critical role in ensuring the safe transit of energy resources. Its presence in key waterways like the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb is vital for regional stability.
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