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Trident Submarine In Three Year Overhaul
London, UK (SPX) Mar 09, 2009 The strategic missile submarine HMS Vigilant will be kitted out with updated weapons systems and a new nuclear reactor core under a refit contract worth in excess of GBP300 million, Secretary of State for Defence John Hutton has announced. The 16,000 tonne submarine is expected to spend around three and a half years under refit by Babcock at Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth. The work is expected to sustain employment for around 1,000 people in the dockyard and another 1,000 across the industry at its peak. During a visit to the Naval Base Mr Hutton said: "This substantial contract, providing over three years of work at the dockyard and sustaining many jobs across industry including small and medium enterprises, is a crucial part of our commitment to updating our submarine fleet. Maintaining the effectiveness of our nuclear deterrent is one of MOD's highest priorities. "The highly sophisticated nature of the work involved is testament to the experience and skills of the workforce here in Devonport and is the latest in a steady stream of packages to be carried out in the dedicated submarine refit facilities here. Both HMS Victorious and HMS Turbulent have recently left Devonport following successful overhauls, with HMS Triumph making progress in her maintenance period as we speak." MOD Chief of Materiel Fleet Vice Admiral Sir Trevor Soar said: "The major overhaul will furnish Vigilant with the latest reactor core, as used in the new Astute class submarines, fuelling her for life. Several other important updates to both her self defence systems and her Trident missile system are also included, significantly updating the combat ability of this 21st Century warship." The accommodation and mess areas that cater for the 135 strong ship's company will receive a makeover. A major revalidation of the submarine safety systems will see Vigilant returned to the fleet in 2012 at very high safety standards, ready to carry out her role in the Strategic Deterrent programme. Related Links UK MoD Naval Warfare in the 21st Century
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Hong Kong (UPI) Mar 6, 2009 "Anti-piracy operations" have given China's People's Liberation Army navy the best excuse to penetrate the Indian Ocean and station forces there permanently. (Andrei Chang is editor in chief of Kanwa Defense Review Monthly, registered in Toronto.) |
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