ABS has been selected as the classification society for the four Ambassador MK III Fast Missile Patrol Craft being built for the Egyptian Navy at Halter Marine. The vessels are a continuation of the Egyptian Navy’s Ambassador Class Patrol Craft fleet. The Ambassador MK III is a state-of-the-art Patrol Craft designed for the 21st century. The vessel will be 60.62 meters long and will feature a state-of-the-art diesel propulsion system. These vessels are equipped with the latest in technology and defense capability in this vessel class.

"We are gratified to have been chosen by the Egyptian Navy to provide classification services and are looking forward to working with Halter in what is certainly going to be an exciting program," said Robert E. Kramek, Senior Vice President and Division President of ABS Americas. "ABS has an established experience base working with the Egyptian Government. This award further strengthens our relationship and underscores ABS’ leading position in classing government vessels worldwide." The craft will be classed X A1 HSC, Government Service, X AMS, ACCU, R2S+. Construction is anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2001 in Halter’s Mississippi facilities.