Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace has formally re-launched the competition to build three new Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Here we analyse the limited detail that is public and the implications for industry and afloat support for the Royal Navy.
Speaking today at the First Sea Lord’s Sea Power Conference, Admiral Tony Radakin announced the names of the five Type 31 frigate being constructed for the Royal Navy in Rosyth; HMS Active, HMS Bulldog, HMS Campbeltown, HMS Formidable and HMS Venturer.
In preparation for the forthcoming deployment, the Carrier Strike Group participated in a much-changed version of the biannual Joint Warrior exercise, renamed Strike Warrior, off North West Scotland. This provided an opportunity to work up the group as well as operate with NATO partners.
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Already one of the finest heavyweight torpedoes in the world, the programme to further enhance the accuracy and lethality of Spearfish is now complete. After extensive development and trials, the weapon has now been declared operational by the RN.
RFA Fort Victoria suffered a minor fire while alongside in Portland on the morning of the 10th May. It was extinguished by the crew with no serious injuries. This ship is the sole UK solid stores support ship available to replenish the carrier strike group.
HMS Tamar has emerged from her recent maintenance period at A&P Falmouth with a new ‘dazzle’ paint scheme. This form of warship camouflage dates back to the First World war and makes visual warship recognition more difficult.
The stern block of the first Type 26 frigate, HMS Glasgow was rolled out of the build hall on 29th April and joined with the forward block. When they are welded together the hull will be structurally complete.
During the last few weeks, the final preparations for the UK Carrier Strike deployment have been completed and the ships sailed on 1st May. This photo essay covers the various elements of the group and their departure.