New Patrol Vessel for Falklands

The ship that is to replace both the Castle-class ships, for patrol duties in Falklands waters, was launched last week. HMS Clyde is a River Class design with a helicopter deck capable of accepting helicopters up to the size of the new Merlin. She also has increased accommodation to cater for an embarked force and higher levels of survivability and surveillance radar. The 263-ft. vessel will accommodate a crew of 36 with additional accommodation for up to 20 extra personnel. Although there will only be one ship in the Falklands, HMS Clyde is more technologically capable than the Dumbarton and Leeds Castle and will be available for operational duty more often than the 25 year old Castle-class ships. Source: MercoPress