ARAGUARI,
the third Ocean Patrol Vessel in the Amazonas Class, sailed out of Portsmouth
this morning with her BAE Systems crew and Brazilian Navy observers.
They will spend two weeks testing all elements of the ship’s functionality,
including her propulsion and combat systems. |
Members
of ARAGUARI’s 81 strong crew have now moved into their new residence
on HM Naval Base Portsmouth and have begun training to handle the Ocean
Patrol Vessel. The naval base is already home to the Brazilian Navy
support team, which is overseeing the delivery of the entire class of
ships.
Nigel Stewart, Commercial Director of BAE Systems Maritime, said: “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. 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.”
Over 250 members of the Brazilian Navy have now been stationed in the
UK since the contract was signed at the end of 2011 for three Ocean
Patrol Vessels and ancillary support services, which includes a manufacturing
licence to enable further vessels of the same class to be constructed
in Brazil.
AMAZONAS, the first ship in the class, is already in operation after
arriving in Brazil while APA, the second ship, is currently on her 10,000
mile delivery voyage. ARAGUARI is scheduled to be handed over to the
Brazilian Navy in June.
The 90 metre Amazonas Class ships are based on the design of the Royal
Navy’s River Class Offshore Patrol Vessels and are ideal for providing
maritime security in Brazil’s territorial waters, including the
protection of the country’s oil and gas platforms.
The ships are equipped with a 30mm cannon and two 25mm guns, as well
as rigid inflatable boats and a helicopter flight deck. There is additional
accommodation for 40, designed for use by a boarding party of troops
or passengers such as evacuees.
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