STX Marine Holds Keel-Laying Ceremony for the Irish Naval Service’s OPV

STX Marine recently held keel-laying ceremony of the first of two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) for the Irish Naval Service (INS). The keel was laid by Commodore Mellet, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Service at Babcock Marine’s shipyard in Appledore, North Devon.

The ceremony was attended by senior representatives of the Department of Defence, the Naval Service and STXM.

The newbuilds are of the PV90 design which are a lengthened version of the PV80 class, which were also designed by STX Canada Marine and completed by Appledore in 1999 and 2001.

The PV90 newbuilds will retain the overall configuration of the PV80 but will be increased in length by over 10 metres. They are also to have a slightly deeper draft for improved sea-keeping while patrolling in rougher waters particularly throughout Ireland’s extensive naval duties in the Atlantic.

In addition there will be more space at the aft-deck to load on board containers and an increased speed to 23 knots. The will be crew for 44 personnel plus additional quarters for 10 trainee crew.

The first newbuild is due for delivery in early 2014 followed by the second vessel in 2015. The PV90 class are to replace two of the older Naval Service ships from operational service while maintaining an eight-strong fleet.

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Source: stxmarine, May 29, 2012