New vessel for Falklands patrol duties

THE ship that is to replace both the Castle-class ships, Dumbarton Castle and Leeds Castle for patrol duties in Falklands waters, was launched last week. HMS Clyde is an enhanced 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, a 30mm gun, and higher levels of survivability and surveillance radar. The 80 metre vessel will accommodate a crew of 36 (six officers, nine senior rates and 21 junior rates), berthed in single or twin berth cabins with en suite facilities. There will be additional accommodation for up to 20 extra personnel, which could be an embarked military force, trainees or headquarters staff.