Cammell Laird lands £47m RFA refit

The massive refit will be the biggest ever undertaken by the yard since it began its 25 year through life support ‘cluster’ contract to maintain nine of the 13 ships in the RFA flotilla in 2008. The contract was renewed for a further five years from 2013 based on key performance indicators and value for money.

The RFA Fort Victoria is one of the largest vessels operated by the British Ministry of Defence. It has just completed three years of active service where it has been Britain’s number one pirate catcher on operations off the coast of Somalia as well as supporting the Royal Navy in traditional roles.

Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Phillip Dunne said: “This £47m contract is a boost for Merseyside and I am delighted that this vital refit will provide ongoing work for 200 highly skilled workers at the shipyard in Birkenhead. RFA Fort Victoria has been at the forefront of military operations for most of her life and this refit will reinvigorate her for future operations.”

Cammell Laird project director Spencer Atkinson, who will be leading the refit for Cammell Laird, said it would be one of the most detailed ever undertaken by the yard employing 200 skilled workers plus sub contractors over nearly a year.

“A huge amount of work has already gone into preparing for this refit, such as the pre-manufacturing of pipe work, steel work and ordering long lead equipment as well as extensive planning, he said. “The Victoria is very well known to us and we have an in depth understanding of the vessel.

“The main jobs on this contract will include an accommodation uplift, the replacement of six diesel generators, with complete new fuel, lube oil, salt water and fresh water systems and new pumps. In addition we are overhauling the engine and main propulsion systems and steering systems. Another big job will be the installation of two ballast water treatment plants using the latest environmentally friendly technology and know how.

“Elsewhere we are replacing two sewage treatment plants, installing new reverse osmosis plants, a new incinerator and upgrading all crane ammunition handling equipment. We are also replacing the fire detection system throughout the vessel and installing a new local fire suppression system on the main engines and generators. All the weapons and weapon systems will also be overhauled. Meanwhile extensive general dry-docking works will be undertaken including painting and blasting of tanks and the underwater hull and painting the superstructure, including all her decks”