IMDEX 2025: ADSB develops medevac variant of 160 ITEP

A model of the ADSB 160 ITEP on display at IMDEX 2025. The company is developing a medevac variant of this platform. (Janes/Ridzwan Rahmat)

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) is developing a variant of its 160 Inshore Tactical and Engagement Platform (ITEP) fast patrol boat that can be deployed specifically for medical evacuation (medevac) operations.

Speaking to Janes at the IMDEX 2025 naval and defence exhibition in Singapore, ADSB's director for business development, Abdelrahman Alrousi, described the project as one that has come about due to a request from an existing customer.

Among the requirements that have been stipulated by the customer is the ability to ambulate between six and 10 casualties with full medical support, said Abdelrahman. He stopped short of naming the customer.

The 160 ITEP is a fast patrol boat that was originally designed to meet the requirements of the United Arab Emirates' (UAE's) coastguard service, which is known as the Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA).

It has a length of 16 m, a beam of 4.10 m, and a full load displacement of approximately 17 tonnes. Powered by twin 1,000 hp diesel engines, the vessel can reach a top speed in excess of 45 kt at full load in Sea State 1.

In terms of weapons, the 160 ITEP has been designed to accommodate a launcher for rockets or short-range missiles in the aft section and a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) on its wheelhouse.

However, in order to meet medevac requirements, designers at ADSB are looking to extend the cabin further towards its stern, said Abdelrahman.