The navy of the United Arab Emirates has signed a contract worth more than 500 million dollars for six multi-purpose missile corvettes from Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB). The "Baynunah" class 70-metre long vessels will be designed by France's Constructions Mecaniques de Normandie (CMN) under a subcontract from ADSB, and CMN will also build the first ship in France. The remaining three vessels, as well as two optional vessels, will be built at ADSB's shipyard in Abu Dhabi.

This 70m multi-mission corvette will offer a variety of complex mission capabilities combined with a modern combat system with the capability to perform a wide range of military operations, including defense against both air and surface threats. The latest in electronic sensor technology, along with a combination of newly developed missiles and guns will provide a degree of defensive firepower that is unique for vessels of this size. The vessel, boasting speeds of over 30 knots, will also serve as a base for helicopter missions and have a fully enclosed helicopter hangar area on deck.