Article Posted on : - Nov 10, 2010

A file photo of HMS Edinburg.

PORTSMOUTH (BNS): British Royal Navy's Type-42 destroyer HMS Edinburg has returned to the fleet after undergoing a major overhaul at the BAE System's Portsmouth facility.

The destroyer, which completed its refit work last month, returned to the Royal Navy last week after remaining out of action for 18 months.

The vessel, which is the last of the Type-42 destroyers to be revamped, was upgraded under a £17.5 million contract awarded to BAE Systems.

The warship now features new propulsion machinery, improved weapons and communications systems, advanced sensors and accommodation.

Since the refit, the ship has completed a comprehensive trials programme to ensure the upgrades are operating effectively and that she is ready for training and operations, the Royal Navy said.

The ship crew will also undertake an intensive eight-week period of operational sea training, the Navy said, adding that by next spring, the destroyer will be available for deployment anywhere in the world.