Article Posted on : - Sep 22, 2010

HMS Edinburgh. A BAE Systems photo

PORTSMOUTH, UK (BNS): HMS Edinburgh 'Fortress of the sea' has emerged sleeker and faster as she embarks on sea trials following an extensive £17.5 million overhaul by BAE Systems.

The last of the Type 42 destroyers to undergo a major upkeep, HMS Edinburgh has been fitted with a new underwater spoiler to her stern, known as a transom flap, and a coat of new 'intersleek' paint that will cut fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent.

A newly refurbished diesel engine has also been fitted to the ship and the IT network, accommodation areas, fresh water systems, galley and laundry facilities have all been revamped.

Malcolm Fudge, BAE Systems' project manager for the HMS Edinburgh refit, said "We are now embarking on a critical stage of the programme as we test the engineering work to ensure that she has been brought back to a fully operational standard before she returns to the fleet for her final years of service."

The sea trials will test the ship's propulsion machinery, radar and communication equipments, as well as its ability to conduct flying operations.

HMS Edinburgh's signatures will then be assessed for radar cross section, heat, magnetic and acoustics before trials culminating in live firings of medium and close range weapons.

The 30 year old Fortress of the Sea is set to be formally accepted back into the Royal Navy fleet in late October, BAE Systems said.