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Minehunter heads to Gulf for security role
A Portsmouth-based warship with a hi-tech paint job is heading to the Gulf for three years tomorrow.
The minehunter HMS Middleton will leave the naval base fresh from a four-month overhaul to help it cope with the harsh desert climate.
This includes 'Intersleek' paint which allows the ship to cut through the seas, reducing fuel costs and emissions.
Lieutenant Commander Richard Goldstone, in command of Middleton, said: 'The ship is more familiar to the colder south coast and Scotland, so it must be given as much protection as possible from the very different elements in the Gulf.
'As well as the paint on the hull which stops the build-up of microbiological organisms, we have new sand filters over the air vents to stop it coming in and damaging equipment.
'These enhancements make Middleton a welcome addition to the Second Mine Countermeasures Squadron.
Although Middleton is planned to be away for three years, the ship's company will be rotating every six months.
The current crew will sail from Portsmouth to Bahrain, and once there - after conducting maritime security duties around the Horn of Africa - she will work with regional navies to ensure stability in their waters.
For some of the ship's company, this is their first deployment. Able Seaman (Diver) Paul Whitney, 24, from Gosport, said: 'Though being away can be hard, I know that we're doing our bit.'
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Weather for Portsmouth
Sunday 12 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 3 C to 7 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 3 C to 7 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: North west
