Kuwait arms Al-Dorra corvettes in the MASS launcher

Kuwaiti naval forces will first receive MASS multispectral targets. Rheinmetalla production systems will be integrated into eight Al-Dorra corvettes, built at Abu Dhabi Shipbuilding shipyard.

MASS launchers for new Kuwaiti corvettes

On 10 July, the German Rheinmetall company announced that it had concluded an agreement with Kuwait's marine forces to supply MASS systems, or Multi Ammunition Softkill System.

The contract includes the delivery of the launcher, their integration with onboard equipment and the check of the operation of the systems after installation on ships. MASS hits eight. Al-Dorra Corvette, formed in Abu Dhabi Shipbuilding shipyard belonging to the EDGE Group.

Rheinmetall stated that the value of the order on the launcher is within a low two-digit range calculated in millions of euros. Distortion ammunition was separately contracted, the value of which was set at a high single-digit range.

The deliveries are to be made from the second quarter of 2026 to the second quarter of 2029.

Ammunition disrupting OmniTrap-ER Mk2

Along with Kuwait launchers, he ordered ammunition disrupting OmniTrap-ER Mk2. This is the latest variant of multispectral apparent targets designed to defend ships against anti-ship missiles using different guidance systems.

According to the company Rheinmetall Ammunition has an increased range and a changed flight path, which allows you to more accurately set apparent targets. The system can interfere with radiolocation, laser, electrooptic and infrared and ultraviolet sensors.

The MASS task is to draw the missile from the protected ship by creating an apparent target with characteristics corresponding to the corvette signature.

Eight Al-Dorra Corvettes

New corvettes have been formed as part of Kuwait's largest ship-building program for over 15 years. Units are based on the OPV project Wave 3, developed for the United Arab Emirates naval forces.

An agreement to build eight ships was signed on 3 June 2025. The value of the program is approximately $2.45 billion. The main contractor is the EDGE group, while Abu Dhabi Shipbuilding shipyard in Abu Dhabi is responsible for the construction.

Prototype Corvette Al Noukhitha (P 6202) was launched on 3 February 2026. The programme includes the construction of modern shock ships intended for activities in coastal and open waters.

MASS part of the protection of new ships

MASS system can be integrated into both the battle command system and used as a stand-alone solution. The modular design allows you to install it on units of different sizes, from patrol ships to frigates.

On Al-Dorra MASS corvettes, it will be an element of passive defense against anti-ship missiles and laser-guided weapons. The order is the first case of Kuwaiti naval forces acquiring this system.