Royal Navy needs to expand OPV fleet
The growing complexity of coastal security issues around the UK and the country’s expanding constabulary roles elsewhere in the world means it is essential the Royal Navy (RN) expands its OPV fleet, according to a former head of the service.
Admiral Sir Jonathon Band, formerly First Sea Lord, told Shephard that the new OPVs ordered from BAE Systems in August need to be added to the fleet when they are brought into service from 2017 onwards rather than serve as a replacement for the current River Class vessels.
A decision on whether the new OPVs are additions or replacements is
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Royal Canadian Navy advances with the construction of its first River-Class destroyer]()
Royal Canadian Navy advances with the construction of its first River-Class destroyer
Scheduled for delivery by 2033, HMCS Fraser will be a major surface component of the Canadian maritime combat power.
-
![Ireland orders Thales towed array sonar]()
Ireland orders Thales towed array sonar
Ireland has a large Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which extends 370km (200nm) offshore and contains 75% of the transatlantic subsea cables which carry $10 trillion in financial transactions daily. The country is investing to increase protection and surveillance of these waters.
-
![South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs]()
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
![South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays]()
South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays
Hyundai and Hanwha recently unveiled advanced frigate and submarine designs while South Korea eyes new export markets and resolves internal rivalries
