French Guiana announces the purchase of an ocean patrol vessel from a French company to protect its exclusive economic zone and strengthen international ties, in response to growing tension with Venezuela over the oil-rich Essequibo region.
French Guiana, in a strategic defense maneuver, announced this week the purchase of a modern ocean patrol vessel, to be built by the renowned French company OCEA SA Valued at around 212 million reais, this investment is a significant milestone in strengthening the Guyanese presence in its territorial waters, especially in the context of the tense relationship with Venezuela over the oil-rich region of the Stabroek Block.
The recent unilateral action by Nicolás Maduro, who proclaimed a Venezuelan state in the disputed region of Essequibo, intensified security concerns in Georgetown, prompting this purchase. The ship, which is not only a combat vessel but also an instrument of surveillance and environmental protection, will crucially serve to monitor activities such as illegal fishing and potential environmental contamination.
The Guyana acquisition goes beyond maritime defense
It reflects a Guyanese effort to strengthen international alliances, evidenced by its proximity to France which, in addition to building the ship, plans to open a embassy in Georgetown. This strategic move comes at a time when Guyana, although militarily modest compared to neighboring Venezuela, seeks to consolidate its sovereignty and territorial integrity through strategic partnerships and investments in defense.
With the support of the United States and the United Kingdom, Guyana is not only challenging Venezuelan claims but also preparing for a robust defense of its waters and resources. The new naval acquisition, therefore, is more than a military upgrade; It is a potent symbol of Guyanese independence and resilience on the South American geopolitical stage.
Oceanic patrol vessel acquired by Guyana is the OPV 190
Finally, it is worth highlighting more technical details about the new Guyanese ocean patrol vessel. According to information from OCEA SA, passed on to Naval News, the model acquired by Guyana is the 190-meter OPV 58, known for its robust construction with an aluminum hull. This same model was delivered to Senegal in 2016, demonstrating the effectiveness and reliability of these vessels in maritime operations.
OCEA SA's expertise is not limited to a single type of vessel or client. The company has already supplied several patrol boats and small OPVs to Suriname, Guyana's neighbor, and is currently involved in the construction of 20 patrol boats for Ukraine's border guard, expanding its presence on the global maritime defense scene.
Important also highlight that the new oceangoing patrol vessel, the GDFS Berbice, arrives to complement and eventually replace the former Guyana Defense Force Coast Guard flagship, the GDFS Essequibo, a River-class sweeper that was retired last year. With the addition of Berbice, Guyana significantly strengthens its maritime patrol and defense capabilities, crucial to the protection of its waters and natural resources.
