HMS Montrose has undergone a major refit ahead of an important role involving the Courier Country sister ship set to be the flagship of the UK Navy fleet.
The Type 23 frigate named after the Angus town is due to escort Rosyth-built aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth to the US to begin delayed F-35 trials later this summer.
Under the complex refit, HMS Montrose has received a new command-and-control system, Sea Ceptor missile system and advanced Artisan radar capability.
Completion of the 25-year-old frigate’s second major refit was marked at an event in which Devonport flotilla commander, Commodore Paul Halton spoke of the “exciting times ahead” for the 4,900 ton vessel and her crew.
“This is the most important day in the life of a ship with all that follows and when you, as the ship’s company, take ownership of your ship following the extensive work that has finally been completed,” he said.
“There are exciting times ahead, including getting ready for sea, going to sea and the work-up of all the systems – with the newness of Sea Ceptor, for instance.
“The most significant tasking will be escort to the new carrier when she goes to the eastern seaboard of the US. I hope this will act as an extra motivation for the busier days ahead.”
Lieutenant Commander Chris Andrews, HMS Montrose weapon engineer officer, described Sea Ceptor as revolutionary and a massive leap in the capabilities in the ship to defend itself and others.
He said: “The ship’s company are chomping at the bit and couldn’t wait to get back on the ship and take her to sea.
“For some, this is their first ship and they relish the chance to challenge themselves over the next few years whilst getting the opportunity to see some foreign ports of call.”
Major improvements have also been made to the sailors’ quality of life on board with an updated galley, new fridges, miles of new cabling and other equipment.
The mess decks have been upgraded including power sockets to allow the sailors to use personal equipment.
Chief Petty Officer Pat Jennings said: “The warrant officers and chief petty officers mess has been refurbished to the highest of standards with new oak-effect bulkheads and new bar, making it feel really homely.”
The MOD’s major industrial partner, Babcock, have also strengthened the hull and structure, with 85 inserts in the hull and an almost full replacement of the upper machinery space roof.
Significant components of the main generators and the propulsion motors have also been restored.
Stuart Leonard, Babcock’s director warships, said: “As part of our wider undertaking to ensure the Royal Navy’s Type 23 Frigates are able to operate well beyond their original design life expectancy we have completed a significant work package on HMS Montrose.
“We are extremely proud to return HMS Montrose to the fleet under the command of her new crew and look forward to working with them in the future as we continue to be trusted to deliver Type 23 support.”
HMS Queen Elizabeth was named at the Fife yard in the summer of 2014 by Her Majesty The Queen and will be capable of carrying 40 aircraft, including 35 F-35 stealth fighters.
Fitting out was completed at the end of 2015 and the crew moved on board in May last year.
