RNZN Tanker Aotearoa Hits the Water
The Royal New Zealand Navy’s (RNZN) first purpose-built ship in 10 years, the HMNZS Aotearoa, was launched at Hyundai Heavy Industries’s Ulsan shipyard in South Korea.The HMNZS Aotearoa auxiliary ship was constructed at the Hyundai Heavy Industries dry dock under a USD327 million contract. In 2020, it will replace the Navy’s latest replenishment oiler, the HMNZS Endeavour, which was decommissioned in 2017.“Seeing a ship of this size and capability on the water nearing full completion is a really exciting time for our Navy,” said Rear Admiral Proctor.“Aotearoa will provide us with a world-class maritime sustainment capability. She is a ship that will carry our nation’s name with pride to all corners of the world as we advance New Zealand’s interests from the sea…
Devonport Workers Entombed in Submarine Ballast Tank
A pair of workers were sealed inside the ballast tank of a nuclear submarine in Plymouth, it has emerged, reports BBC. Colleagues had mistakenly sealed the tank at Devonport base in Plymouth, where Britain's nuclear submarines are refitted. The desperate electricians hammered on the tank with a drill and were saved when they got a faint signal on a mobile phone. The incident at Devonport Naval Base in Plymouth which saw the men accidentally sealed in by colleagues has been described as "extremely unpleasant". A report said the submarine was in dry dock last December and the two men were checking sonar gear inside the ballast tank. When they tried to leave they found a seal had been placed over the entrance in preparation for an air tightness test.
EGS Names RV ‘Geo Resolution’
The EGS management has gathered in Singapore to conduct the christening and blessing ceremony of the RV Geo Resolution, the latest addition to EGS’ fleet of deep water capable hydrographic and geophysical survey vessels, said a press release from the company. The ceremony has taken place at the Sembawang Shipyard, where the vessel was equipped and readied for her forthcoming survey duties. EGS purchased the 68m long RV Geo Resolution (formerly HMNZS Resolution) from the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) in October 2014. During her service in New Zealand, the vessel was the RNZN's principal hydrographic survey ship conducting surveying and charting on behalf of the New Zealand Navy.
Plymouth, UK, Maritime Development Land Deal Signed
The deal is described by the British Government as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to expand the region’s marine and advanced manufacturing industries by freeing up land at the South Yard in Devonport Naval Base. It will enable marine companies to grow their operations, the relocation of supply chain companies to the region and the creation of new marine enterprises. The City Deal is intended to reinvigorate the region’s marine and advanced manufacturing sectors, creating over 9,000 jobs.
British Warship Back to Sea After US$32.5-million Refit
Royal Navy Type 23 frigate 'HMS Somerset' returns to sea for the first time in 9 months following an extensive modernization. The Type 23 frigate has a new lease of life as one of the most advanced fighting ships in the fleet due following docking and upgrade in her home port, Devonport Naval Base, in partnership with Babcock Marine. The warship’s fighting capability is now among the most advanced in the world, while the living arrangements and main machinery have been improved and overhauled.
Singapore and NZ Conduct Maritime Exercises
Members of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will exercise alongside the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) during Exercise Lion Zeal from July 10- 14. The exercise, which is based out of Devonport Naval Base, consists of both a sea and shore phase and will allow both Navies to develop closer ties and improve interoperability. The aim of Exercise Lion Zeal is to strengthen the relationship and enhance mutual cooperation and understanding between the RSN and RNZN. Ten personnel from the RSN will participate in the exercise and will work alongside members of the RNZN on the HMNZS TE KAHA. The first phase of the exercise will be conducted on shore and will see the two Navies conduct professional exchanges and a one day planning and tactical gaming exercise.
U.K. Navy Spends $176.5M on Training System
The Royal Navy is spending $176.5 million on a computerized training system to prepare sailors serving on aircraft carriers and destroyers for combat. The contract covers procurement and 10-year support and operation of the Maritime Composite Training System Phase One, which will be used to train sailors serving on Invincible class carriers, Type 45 and 42 destroyers, and Type 23 frigates. A $176.5 million contract signed with BAE Systems Insyte will see a consortium creating new facilities in Devonport Naval Base, and the shore base HMS Collingwood near Portsmouth, in time to be ready to train Type 45 crew later this decade. The system is expected to remain in service past 2040. (Source: www.silicon.com)
Corrosion Likely Cause of Pacific Sky’s Problems
P&O Cruises’ Pacific Sky is undergoing repairs to its ducting system and will be ready to depart for its next cruise on March 23. According to reports, severe corrosion was to blame for a leak which forced the cruise ship back to Auckland with 1470 passengers and 600 crew. The vessel is now berthed at the Devonport Naval Base where it is undergoing repairs. Spokesman Russell Kilvington says their officials are now looking at the rest of the ship to determine whether this is an isolated problem or if there are other areas which will require repair. The MSA says Pacific Sky will not return to its cruise schedule until repairs are carried out to the agency's satisfaction.
