PORTSMOUTH, England, April 4 (UPI) -- BAE Systems in Britain is conducting an extensive refit of a British navy frigate, reflecting the company's growth in support services.
Under the $28.8 million contract, the 20-year-old HMS Lancaster is receiving upgrades to its Seawolf guided missile system, command system, communications systems and installation of a remotely operated 30mm gun system.
A significant amount of work will be undertaken on the ship's hull as well as its power and propulsion machinery, including a new coating of underwater paint, refurbishment of its diesel generators and replacement of shafts and propellers.
"The work that we are now undertaking in partnership with the Royal Navy here in Portsmouth will boost the war-fighting capability of HMS Lancaster to ensure that it returns to the fleet in 12 months, fighting fit and continues to deliver exceptional capability to the Royal Navy for years to come," said Barry Woolley, head of the Ship Support Integrated Operations Team at BAE Systems.
The project is expected to be completed by next March with HMS Lancaster scheduled to return to the operational fleet later that month.
Working with the British navy at Portsmouth Naval Base, through a partnering relationship known as Team Portsmouth, the company provides support to naval base infrastructure as well as the surface fleet. Included is coordination of all aspects of repair, maintenance and support for Hunt class vessels and Type 45 destroyers.
