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.
HMS Pembroke set to return to service
The Royal Navy’s HMS Pembroke is ready to return to service after a successful 42-week, £8 million refit at Babcock’s Rosyth dockyard in Fife.
The work carried out on the Sandown class mine countermeasures vessel (MCMV) included upgrade of the ship’s sonar and communications systems, overhaul of propulsion systems and generators, and improvement of fresh water tanks.
HMS Pembroke has completed sea acceptance trials off the Scottish and Norwegian coasts and will now re-join her six sister ships as part of the Faslane Flotilla at HM Naval Base Clyde.
Lt Cmdr Richard Kemp, commanding officer of HMS Pembroke, said: ‘It’s been a real team effort from Babcock, the sub-contractors, DE&S and my own ship’s company to get Pembroke out in such great shape.
‘That we have managed to sail through all of our trials in such a short time and pass them all with flying colours really goes to show what great work has gone on over the past nine months. We’re now ready to start delivering on operations wherever we are needed.’
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