Royal Navy’s new OPV named
The first new River class Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) being built for the UK's Royal Navy has been officially named, it was announced on 9 March.
The 1,800 tonne, 90m vessel was named HMS Forth during a ceremony at BAE Systems' site at Scotstoun in Glasgow.
HMS Forth is the first of a fleet of five new Batch 2 River-class OPVs being built on the Clyde which are all expected to be in service by 2021. The OPVs will be tasked with a range of missions, including counter-terrorism, anti-smuggling and maritime defence duties.
The vessel is now preparing to embark on sea trials and is expected to enter service with the Royal Navy in 2018.
Harriett Baldwin, UK Minister for Defence Procurement, said: 'From counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean, to securing the UK's borders on patrols closer to home, the Royal Navy's new OPVs will help protect our interests around the world.'
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Canada awards Seaspan a construction contract for the first Coast Guard’s Polar Icebreaker]()
Canada awards Seaspan a construction contract for the first Coast Guard’s Polar Icebreaker
CCGS Arpatuuq will be the first heavy cold weather vessel entirely built in Canada.
-
![Denmark places $184 million contract for Naval Strike Missiles]()
Denmark places $184 million contract for Naval Strike Missiles
The missiles are being purchased through a government-to-government sale with Norway and will be operated from Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates.
-
![Navantia combat systems selected for Chinese-built Thai LPD]()
Navantia combat systems selected for Chinese-built Thai LPD
The landing platform dock, believed to be the largest naval vessel that China has exported, will see the Chinese-built vessel embrace Western technology.
