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OPV begins sea trials

LONDON, April 8 (UPI) -- A third ocean patrol vessel built for the Brazilian Navy by Britain's BAE Systems is beginning two weeks of sea trials.

The Araguari is the third OPV in the Brazilian Navy's Amazonas Class. Its Brazilian crew in now in Britain at HM Naval Base Portsmouth, where a Brazilian Navy support team is deployed to oversee delivery of the ships.

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BAE said the two weeks of testing will cover all functional elements of the ship, including her propulsion and combat systems.

"Today is the start of an exciting new stage in the delivery of this highly capable warship, as well as another milestone in our strong partnership with the Brazilian Navy," said Nigel Stewart, commercial director of BAE Systems Maritime. "The BAE Systems team will test Araguari's performance and work with her crew to ensure they are ready for the challenges that the ship will face when delivered to Brazil to provide maritime security, humanitarian relief and search and rescue."

BAE Systems was contracted in 2011 for three ocean patrol vessels and ancillary support services. The agreement included a manufacturing license for future Amazonas class vessels to be built in Brazil.

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The vessels of the Amazonas class are based on the design of the Royal Navy's River Class Offshore Patrol Vessels.

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