Babcock has started refit programme on the Royal Navy’s Type 23 Duke-class vessel, HMS Monmouth (F235), at Devonport Royal Dockyard, UK.
The 15-month refit programme includes a number of upgrades and improvements to significantly enhance sustainability and fighting capability of HMS Monmouth.
Upgrade work includes replacing Radar 996 with Artisan 3D Medium Range Radar 997, vertical launch Seawolf midlife update, galley updates, installation of a chloropac system that reduces marine growth in the pipe system, the installation of automatic small calibre guns, and modifications to high-pressure air systems to allow safer isolation of distinct parts.
Additional deep maintenance work includes rudder inspections, replacement or overhaul of all hull valves, shaft replacement, revalidation of the hull and structures, renewal of high and low pressure air compressors and overhaul of both special service air compressors, and a large represervation programme.
The work scope will ensure maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness for optimum value for money.
Babcock Warship Support SSS delivery director Mike Weeks said the refit programme’s particular challenges includes the 100% removal of the dock blocks using hydraulic lifting process, to allow survey and painting of the hull.
"We look forward to completing the project to time, cost and quality allowing HMS Monmouth to return to the fleet much enhanced and in a very good material state for her to continue in her role," Weeks said.
HMS Monmouth will undergo sea trials in early 2015 and return to the Fleet in mid 2015 while the refit programme aims to ensure that the HMS Monmouth will remain at the forefront of naval technology while serving well into the next decade for the Royal Navy.
Image: HMS Monmouth at sea. Photo: courtesy of Ben Shread.
