Iron Duke updated

(FSL) has recently completed the first fit of an upgraded

radial, chemical, biological, radioactive, nuclear (CBRN) filter system to the Royal Navy type 23 frigate HMS Iron Duke.

The system, installed in mid-December during the ship’s ten-month maintenance period in Portsmouth, improves on the cost effectiveness of previous systems by requiring less filter changes, and could potentially be fitted to all ships in the class.

FSL provided testing and trialling of the new system as well as installation design and installation. Changes were made to the existing in-board fittings as well as installations to the ship’s superstructure.

Externally, the frigate was also fitted with a new transom flap to improve fuel economy. A number of sea tubes were replaced, radar trackers were overhauled and the ship was painted.

The gearbox also was worked on, crew accommodation was enhanced and a new aircraft handling system was fitted to allow the frigate to accommodate the Merlin helicopter.

‘Iron Duke is now a much more capable warship and being able to embark a Merlin helicopter gives me a huge increase in capability.’ said CO Commander Mark Newland.

With a new crew, the ship will embark on an intensive training period early in the year following successful completion of her sea trials.