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Navy ship gets new lick of paint
A ROYAL Navy minehunter has been coated with a highly sophisticated paint in a bid to protect it from conditions in the Gulf where it will be stationed for the next three years.
Portsmouth's HMS Middleton is due to deploy to the Arabian Gulf on Tuesday February 16.
In preparation she has undergone a four-month enhancement package to ensure the ship can withstand the harsher climate.
This includes a special 'Intersleek' paint which allows her to cut through the seas, slashing fuel costs and emissions.
It also prevents the build-up of marine growth and microbiological organisms. There is also a new air-conditioning system to keep sailors cool.
Commanding officer, Lieutenant Commander Richard Goldstone, said: 'The ship is more familiar to the colder climates of the 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 all the air vents to stop it coming in and damaging equipment.'
Middleton is going to the Gulf to provide security. Although it's planned to be away for three years, the ship's company will be rotated every six months.
She is due past the Round Tower at 10.35am on Tuesday.
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Weather for Portsmouth
Saturday 11 February 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: -4 C to 4 C
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