HMS Somerset returned to the active Fleet on Friday 15th March 2013 following an extensive package of sea trials, after a large upgrade package for the Plymouth based Type-23 frigate. The project has been successfully undertaken by a joint SSS Alliance team (MoD, Babcock, and BAE Systems) under the co-ordination of the Type 23 COM.
Having spent nine months alongside for a £20m refit, HMS Somerset went to sea in January this year to carry out a stringent set of sea trials, to make sure all of her equipment was working as required. This period was also used to get the crew reacquainted with life and routines onboard their refurbished warship.
She returns to the Fleet with improved sustainability and fighting capability.
[mappress] Shipbuilding Tribune Staff, March 22, 2013