Veteran Royal Navy minehunter to get first refit in seven years as she returns to Portsmouth

A ROYAL Navy minehunter that has been in service for more than 30 years has returned for a refit in Portsmouth.
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HMS Hurworth, a minehunter, has traveled more 43,000 nautical miles in the seven years since her last refit – and is now back in HM Naval Base Portsmouth.

Workers from BAE Systems are set to overhaul her power generation, propulsion, and weapons systems, including the installation of an upgraded combat system.

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Living accommodation – which can support 45 crew members – will also be modernised.

HMS Hurworth M39 minesweeper. Picture: Paul A Barrow.HMS Hurworth M39 minesweeper. Picture: Paul A Barrow.
HMS Hurworth M39 minesweeper. Picture: Paul A Barrow.

Since 2013, HMS Hurworth has patrolled the shores around UK and northern Europe, which has involved escorting Russian warships through the English Channel.

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Lieutenant Commander Neil Skinner, who brought HMS Hurworth back into base as the last commanding officer before this refit, said: ‘While the nation fights the Covid-19 epidemic, the Royal Navy’s minehunters have a vital role to play in the defence of home waters and overseas, keeping shipping lanes open to help the flow of international commerce.

‘We’re looking forward to seeing HMS Hurworth at the conclusion of a refit which will keep her at the forefront of mine warfare for years to come and a return to overseas operations.’

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The refit is due to be completed next year, after which HMS Hurworth will conduct extensive sea trials and regeneration training ahead of her deployment to the Gulf.

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