Defence Online

New offshore patrol vessel named HMS Tamar

Maritime March 26, 2019

HMS Tamar, which is part of a five-strong OPV contract with BAE Systems, worth a combined £635 million, has been formally named at a ceremony in Glasgow.

The next-generation River Class ship will boost Britain’s counter-terrorism and anti-smuggling work and provide essential support to defence operations.

The 90-metre vessel, which is equipped with a 30mm cannon and flight deck capable of accommodating a Merlin helicopter, is part of a five-strong OPV contract with BAE Systems, worth a combined £635 m.

At Scotstoun, the ship’s sponsor, Lady Peach, officially named HMS Tamar by pressing a button to smash a bottle of Camel Valley ‘Cornwall’ Brut against the hull – in recognition of the ship being affiliated to Cornwall.

All the vessels are initially constructed in BAE System’s Govan yard, before being moved to their Scotstoun site to be fitted out with their systems ahead of rigorous sea trials.

All the Batch 2 OPVs, named HMS Forth, HMS Medway, HMS Trent, HMS Tamar and HMS Spey, are set to be delivered to the Royal Navy by the end of 2020.

Sir Simon Bollom, Chief Executive for Defence, Equipment and Support, the MOD’s procurement agency, said: “HMS Tamar continues the legacy of ships being built on the Clyde for the Royal Navy and will perform a vital role defending the UK’s interests.

“It is great news that we are celebrating this milestone alongside our partners in the Royal Navy and BAES. We look forward to the delivery of the remaining OPVs and the further progress on the Type 26 build programme.”

image © Crown Copyright

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BAE Systems DE&S Defence Equipment and Support HMS Forth HMS Medway HMS Spey HMS Tamar HMS Trent OPV

Post written by: Matt Brown