Sandown class mine hunter HMS Bangor has left Babcock’s Rosyth dockyard for sea trials on Friday, 13 June, following a successful six month Support Period (Docking) (SP(D)).
The SP(D), carried out under the Surface Ship Support Alliance Class Output Management (COM) arrangements by the Babcock-led Sandown class COM team, has included a number of upgrades, significantly enhancing HMS Bangor’s operational capability, sustainability and habitability standards, as well as a substantial maintenance package.
Upgrades and improvements have included installation of a modernised IT communication system, an updated fire detection system, major galley and laundry updates, and several upgrades to enhance the ship’s ability to operate in hot climates. HMS Bangor is the first of class to be fitted with modern, economical, environmentally friendlier diesel generators, easing the maintenance load and improving reliability.
Maintenance work has included a full structural survey, significant paint coating including a full outer bottom paint scheme replacement using modern more sustainable coatings, weather deck covering renewal, and complete overhaul of the ship’s reverse osmosis plant and boat crane. Other significant work packages include maintenance on Sonar 2093, the platform’s main weapon system.
Babcock Warships Managing Director, Mike Whalley, said: “The work to be undertaken on Bangor was defined by the Babcock-led Sandown class COM team, based on knowledge of the ship’s material state and our experience of previous Sandown class refits, to minimise the level of emergent work and optimise efficiency and value for money. We are delighted now to have successfully and safely completed the upkeep work, and to see HMS Bangor leave Rosyth for sea trials in the best possible material state.”
MoD MCM Team Leader Captain Giulian Hill said: “I am delighted HMS Bangor is returning to sea, especially having completed the first of class installation of the new diesel generators. This along with other important upgrades will help to sustain her capabilities into the future.”
Following sea trials, HMS Bangor will return to the Fleet by early July.
[mappress] Press Release, June 16, 2014; Image: UK Navy