The main thrust of the 'LT 128ft Stabilisation modifications' is to greatly improve the vessels' stability and thus remove many of the restrictions placed upon their operational capabilities.

Those restrictions included stringent conditions governing the sea states under which they can operate and on the use of fuel oil. Range was limited considerably by the need to keep fuel on board as ballast.

Whilst undergoing essential modifications to correct these deficiencies the opportunity has been taken to improve many other aspects of the tug's operational performance.

The most obvious and significant modification has been a reduction in the height of the superstructure by one deck, by removing the radio cabin from beneath the wheelhouse. To accomplish that, the original wheelhouse and radio cabin have been completely removed and discarded. A new much larger wheelhouse structure has been fabricated at the base in Aluminium Alloy.

Windows for the vessels, a total of over 150 for all six tugs, are being supplied by Houdini Marine Windows. Prior to putting the new wheelhouse in place a new pre-fitted out and electronically screened radio cabin has been inserted into the existing accommodation block.

The top portion of the radio cabin protrudes into the centre of the new wheelhouse, which now has new control consoles forward and a considerable 'walk-round' space at the sides and aft.

Both exhaust uptakes have been reduced considerably in height and a new mast structure has been added. Other measures taken to improve stability include, a large reduction in the weight of fendering around the bow and raised forecastle, fitting larger bilge keels and the conversion of void spaces into internal tanks. The latter has increased the vessels range (free-running at 12 knots) from 3,906 miles to 5,926 miles. Fuel and ballast transfer equipment has also been significantly upgraded.

As part of the same project, a great deal of effort has been expended in reducing noise levels onboard by improving insulation and modernising the ventilation system and air ducting. Noise levels on the bridge have been reduced from 70.1db to 60.2db. New consoles have been installed on the bridge wings for propulsion and winch controls. On the after deck, the existing towing winches have been retained but relatively minor changes have been made to the fairleads and towing gear.

Four of the LT 128 series tugs were in the Hythe yard when Maritime Journal paid the base a visit in December, all at different stages in the reconstruction process. One vessel, LT 803 Major General Anthony Wayne , has been the prototype for all modifications, has successfully run extensive trials and is virtually ready for operational service.

A second tug LT 805 Major General Winfield Scott has structural modifications well advanced, a third is undergoing underwater maintenance and modifications and a fourth vessel is waiting for major reconstruction to start. The remaining two tugs of the series will arrive from the USA in a few months time.