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
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