Future RAN training vessel completes sea trials

Damen Shipyards has successfully completed sea trials of the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN's) Multi-Role Aviation Training Vessel (MATV) MV Sycamore, the company announced on 20 April.

In addition to manoeuvring and speed tests, the sea trials included testing of all on-board systems. This included testing of the air traffic radar, flight deck lighting and firefighting, flight deck communication systems and helicopter traverse installation procedures.

When the vessel enters service with the RAN, MV Sycamore will perform training and support duties, providing a training platform for helicopter-related operations, such as helicopter deck landings and take off, helicopter refuelling operations and air traffic control.

The vessel will be capable of carrying out a number of secondary roles, including torpedo and mine recovery operations, navigation training, dive support, officer sea familiarisation, target towing and consort duties and unmanned aerial vehicle support.

The 94m long vessel has a large payload capacity and can also be used to support humanitarian relief operations.

The MV Sycamore is being prepared for its maiden voyage to her home port of Sydney, where the vessel is expected to arrive at the end of May.