'Scarborough' launches on the Clyde today
One of the new Offshore Patrol Vessels is readied for launch.
Two Offshore Patrol Vessels being built by BAE Systems in the UK for the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago take a step closer to completion this week.
The two 90m Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard are part of a £150m contract to build, integrate, test and commission (up to sea trials) three ships for the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Under the programme the defence company will also provide training and a five year in-service support package, while the UK Ministry of Defence is providing advice to the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and operational sea training to the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard crews.
Lord Davies, Government Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business said, ‘I am delighted that the UK is able to provide Trinidad and Tobago with these highly capable ships. The UK Government will work with BAE Systems and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard to make sure the crews get the most out of their new vessels.’
The three Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago will perform a range of Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ) management, special operations and maritime law enforcement tasks. The first of the ships is being constructed at BAE Systems’ Portsmouth facility, while the second and third vessels are being built at its yard at Scotstoun on the Clyde.
The 90.5m LOA vessels have a moulded breadth of 13.5m and a draught of 3.5m. They will be capable of in excess of 25 knots, with a range of 5,500nm at 12 knots. Endurance is for 35 days and the vessels will have nominal crew of 60, with accommodation for 50 fully equipped troops.
Sea boardings will be conducted using onboard RIBs and Fast Interceptor Craft. The vessels will also be able to conduct helicopter operations, and have ample deck space for the transport of containers and additional craft.
Images for this article - click to enlarge
Unless otherwise stated, all images copyright © Mercator Media 2012. This does not exclude the owner's assertion of copyright over the material.
