Royal Navy’s new offshore patrol vessel enters the water

The first of the Royal Navy’s new style of River-class offshore patrol vessels has entered the water for the first time.

Forth completed her 1¾-mile journey from BAE Systems shipyard at Govan on the Clyde to the company’s Scotstoun site.

The first plate of steel was delivered to Govan in October 2014, with the ship structurally complete 18 months later.

Forth will now be fitted with her systems and undergo testing at Scotstoun before being handed over to the Royal Navy in 2017.

“The cutting-edge technology of the Royal Navy’s versatile new offshore patrol vessels will enable these warships to carry out a wide range of tasks, from disaster-relief missions to maritime security,” said Vice Admiral Simon Lister, Chief of Material (Fleet) for Defence and Equipment and Support.

“Supported by a rising Defence budget, the rollout of HMS Forth reflects the success of the OPV programme, safeguarding the vital capability and skills that will be used in the delivery of the Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates.”