HMS Westminster completes refit
The Royal Navy’s Type 23 Frigate HMS Westminster has completed an extensive refit programme at Portsmouth Naval Base, BAE Systems announced on 3 October.
A number of improvements have been made to the vessel under the Maritime Services Delivery Framework (MSDF) programme, including installation of BAE Systems’ Artisan 3D radar and the Sea Ceptor air defence weapon system.
Artisan is capable of monitoring more than 800 objects simultaneously from 200 to 200,000 metres; while Sea Ceptor will protect against aerial threats. The vessel has also been fitted with a refurbished 4.5in MK8 naval gun, which can fire up to two dozen high explosive shells per minute to combat surface, aircraft and shore targets.
Structural improvements to HMS Westminster include a replacement of the ship’s bridge, upgrade of the galley, and refurbishment of mess decks and communal areas. The hull has also received a coat of anti-fouling paint, providing protection from algae and marine organism growth on operations.
With the crew now back onboard, HMS Westminster will undergo a series of harbour-based and sea trials ahead of an anticipated return to service in spring 2017.
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