Royal Navy christens HMS Tamar
The Royal Navy has officially named its fourth Batch 2 River-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) HMS Tamar.
Designed for counter-terrorism and anti-smuggling operations, the 90m OPV is equipped with a 30mm cannon and a flight deck capable of accommodating a Merlin helicopter. The vessel is part of a five-strong OPV fleet being built for the navy under a contract with BAE Systems worth a combined £635 million.
All the Batch 2 OPVs, named HMS Forth, HMS Medway, HMS Trent, HMS Tamar, and HMS Spey, are set to be delivered to the Royal Navy by the end of 2020.
The vessels are constructed in BAE System’s Govan yard, before being moved to its Scotstoun site to be fitted out with their systems ahead of rigorous sea trials.
Stuart Andrew, UK’s Minister for Defence Procurement, said: ‘From patrolling our coastlines and protecting UK waters, to anti-smuggling and counter terrorism operations, these ships are a key part of our Royal Navy fleet. Today’s naming marks an important milestone in HMS Tamar’s programme ahead of starting sea trials and being accepted into operational service next year.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Ukraine’s new long-range 12m autonomous vessel can deploy other drones]()
Ukraine’s new long-range 12m autonomous vessel can deploy other drones
Ukraine’s UForce unveiled the MV11 uncrewed surface vessel, designed to launch and support other naval drones at sea, fuelling debate over the future of autonomous maritime task groups.
-
![German Navy’s Israeli missile test points to deepening defence-industrial ties]()
German Navy’s Israeli missile test points to deepening defence-industrial ties
The test-firing of an Israel Aerospace Industries LORA ballistic missile from a German vessel highlights the Bundeswehr’s focus on speed to capability as it trials Israel’s operationally proven technology.
-
![Global submarine suppliers compete for a rapidly shrinking market]()
Global submarine suppliers compete for a rapidly shrinking market
Diminishing submarine competitions worldwide are leaving fewer acquisition opportunities, pushing contractors toward alternatives.
-
![Future frigate programme highlights broader RNZN replacement challenge]()
Future frigate programme highlights broader RNZN replacement challenge
New Zealand’s evaluation of the Mogami and Arrowhead 140 frigate designs reflects a wider push for alliance interoperability, and points to a larger recapitalisation of the Royal New Zealand Navy fleet beyond the current programme.
