Royal Navy names another River-class OPV in Scotland

The second in a batch of five new Batch 2 River-class patrol vessels has been named in a ceremony in Scotland.

Future HMS Medway was named on Friday by Wendy Fallon, wife of UK defense secretary Michael Fallon.

The Royal Navy has previously named the first and third ship in the class.

While being the second of the Royal Navy’s OPVs, HMS Medway is the tenth vessel to bear the name since the 1690s.

“This year we have already named our second aircraft carrier, two Type 26 frigates and the first in the offshore patrol vessel class,” defense secretary Sir Michael Fallon said. “It is a privilege to see yet another ship named for the growing Royal Navy. Named after Kent’s main river, my family has taken a particular interest in HMS Medway over the course of its construction and this is a proud day for all involved.”

The 90-metre ship is expected to enter service with the Royal Navy in 2019 and will go on to deploy across the globe on counter-terrorism and anti-smuggling operations.

All five of the new Batch 2 River class OPVs are expected to be in service before the end of 2020, with the first of class, HMS Forth, currently on sea trials.

The ship has a crew of 58 and is equipped with a 30mm cannon and flight deck capable of accommodating a Merlin helicopter. Displacing around 2,000 tonnes, she has a maximum speed of around 24 knots and can sail 5,500 nautical miles without having to resupply.

HMS Medway is officially affiliated with the Medway district through an association with Medway Council.