TRINIDAD and TOBAGO ships sail ahead

Glasgow, United Kingdom: Two Offshore Patrol Vessels being built by BAE Systems for the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago will this week take a step closer to completion. Employees at the Portsmouth Naval base will join in the celebrations today when the first vessel is formally named Port of Spain, while the second ship is set to launch and be named Scarborough, on the Clyde tomorrow.

The two 90m Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard are part of a £150 million contract to build, integrate, test and commission (up to sea trials) three ships for the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Under the programme the defence company will also provide training and a five year in-service support package, while the UK Ministry of Defence is providing advice to the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and operational sea training to the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard crews.

Mrs Shellanne Archer, of Scarborough, Tobago, who will launch the second vessel and name her Scarborough during the celebrations on the Clyde, said: “These ships provide the capability to enable our Coast Guard to protect the territorial waters of Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region. Together with my husband, the Captain Designate, I look forward to a long association with Scarborough as she fulfils her vital role in delivering future maritime security to our region.”

Scott Jamieson, Trinidad and Tobago Programme Director at BAE Systems, said: “The contract with the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago demonstrates our position as one of the world’s leading exporters of naval ships. Developing international markets not only ensures that we can deliver future naval capability to our overseas customers, but it also secures the long-term sustainability of the maritime industry in the UK.”

Lord Davies, Government Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business, said: “I am delighted that the UK is able to provide Trinidad and Tobago with these highly capable ships. The UK Government will work with BAE Systems and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard to make sure the crews get the most out of their new vessels.”

The three Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago will perform a range of Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ) management, special operations and maritime law enforcement tasks. The first of the ships is being constructed at BAE Systems’ Portsmouth facility, while the second and third vessels are being built at its yard at Scotstoun on the Clyde.

Technical specification:

* Length overall 90.5 metres
* Breadth moulded 13.5 metres
* Draught 3.5 metres
* Speed in excess of 25 knots
* Range at 12 knots greater than 5,500nm
* Endurance 35 days
* Nominal crew of 60

Other features include:

* Capable sensor and weapons fit integrated within a command and control system
* Comprehensive communication system
* Ability to conduct sea boardings using onboard RIB and Fast Interceptor Craft
* Accommodation for 50 fully equipped troops
* Ability to conduct helicopter operations
* Ample deck space for the transport of containers and additional craft
* Ability to replenish at sea