The UK Royal Navy’s Type 23 Duke-class frigate HMS St Albans has been re-commissioned following successful sea trials off the south coast in May, marking the completion of a £25m refurbishment programme.
As part of the programme, BAE Systems carried out upgrades on the frigate’s weapon systems, command and control computer systems and information processes, as well as an overhaul of its main propulsion systems.
Work also involved the integration of a new 4.5in Mod 1 gun called Kryten, upgraded Seawolf missile system and a DNA(2) command system, in addition to upgraded IT equipment, a new galley and enhancements to crew accommodation.
HMS St Albans commanding officer commander Catherine Jordan said: "I am really proud of what my ship’s company have achieved in 12 weeks of sea trials.
"Our ceremony was about marking the handback of the ship to the Royal Navy and also about our families and their ongoing support to us.
"The work carried out in HMS St Albans will stand her in good stead for her long future and will maintain her reputation that is within the best traditions of the Royal Navy."
The sea trials involved offsetting the impact of the sea on the vessel’s movement, while facilitating safer launching and landing of helicopters, in addition to basic manoeuvring, operation of the engines at full speed, backwards or astern, and the testing of stabilisers.
Following its summer leave, the vessel will execute operational sea training off the UK coast until late 2014.
Commissioned in 2002, the 133m-long, 4,900t Portsmouth-based frigate can accommodate a 180-member crew, while offering an operational range of 7,800nm and a maximum cruising speed of 28k.
Image: The rejoining ceremony of Type 23 Duke-class frigate HMS St Albans. Photo: courtesy of the Royal Navy.
