Royal Navy’s new OPV named
The first new River class Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) being built for the UK's Royal Navy has been officially named, it was announced on 9 March.
The 1,800 tonne, 90m vessel was named HMS Forth during a ceremony at BAE Systems' site at Scotstoun in Glasgow.
HMS Forth is the first of a fleet of five new Batch 2 River-class OPVs being built on the Clyde which are all expected to be in service by 2021. The OPVs will be tasked with a range of missions, including counter-terrorism, anti-smuggling and maritime defence duties.
The vessel is now preparing to embark on sea trials and is expected to enter service with the Royal Navy in 2018.
Harriett Baldwin, UK Minister for Defence Procurement, said: 'From counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean, to securing the UK's borders on patrols closer to home, the Royal Navy's new OPVs will help protect our interests around the world.'
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![European navies line up $105.8 billion in unawarded contracts for 2026]()
European navies line up $105.8 billion in unawarded contracts for 2026
France, Germany and Italy lead the way on unawarded naval defence opportunities that could be awarded this year, but across Europe countries are ramping up their spending efforts to face geopolitical challenges.
-
![Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies]()
Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies
The Spanish Navy’s Alvaro de Bazan-class of air defence frigates will receive the latest Aegis Weapon System technology among other modernisations to extend the service life to 2045.
-
![UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns]()
UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
-
![Raytheon unveils details of its proposal for the US Navy/NATO ESSM Next Significant Variant]()
Raytheon unveils details of its proposal for the US Navy/NATO ESSM Next Significant Variant
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
