Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in its navy in recent years, acquiring advanced warships and demonstrating a growing willingness to participate in maritime task forces. This shift reflects the kingdom’s response to increasing threats in the region and its desire to reduce dependence on the US for defense.
The Royal Saudi Naval Forces have taken command of two naval task forces in the region, signaling a departure from their previous reputation as a reluctant naval power. This change demonstrates a significant turnaround in Riyadh’s maritime strategy.
Saudi Arabia’s reliance on US protection and military support has been a longstanding arrangement. However, as asymmetric threats from rivals like Iran and the Houthi rebels in Yemen have multiplied, Riyadh has become more willing to decrease its dependency on Washington for security.
The kingdom is actively modernizing its fleet, introducing new warships and showcasing their capabilities in real-world scenarios. Saudi Arabia has also increased its contributions to US-led maritime security coalitions and taken on a more prominent role in protecting its sea routes.
The Saudi navy previously consisted of frigates and corvettes commissioned in the 1980s. However, Riyadh is now acquiring Avante 2200-class corvettes from Spain, equipped with advanced weaponry. The first of these corvettes has already arrived, and the fleet is expected to be fully operational by 2024.
Additionally, the Saudi Eastern Fleet is set to receive Multi-Mission Surface Combatant ships ordered from Lockheed Martin. These vessels will be the most sophisticated in the fleet and will enter service in the next few years.
By procuring new warships and leading multilateral naval task forces, Saudi Arabia is demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a formidable naval power in the region.
This shift in Saudi Arabia’s maritime strategy is reminiscent of Iran’s naval buildup under the last Shah in the 1970s. The Saudi Naval Enhancement Program II is the most significant expansion and modernization of the Saudi navy since the 1980s.
The investments and active role of Saudi Arabia in the region do not indicate a desire for war or an arms race with Iran. Instead, it reflects a preparedness to respond to crises or conflicts independently, without relying solely on the US for assistance.
Paul Iddon is a freelance journalist and columnist who writes about Middle East developments, military affairs, politics, and history.