High-Tech UK Warships On Goodwill Mission
By Surya PHA

Bandar Seri Begawan - Promoting and underlining the United Kingdom's strong defence links with Brunei and long-standing interests in the region are the aims of a three-day goodwill visit by two UK warships, which will arrive in the Sultanate today.

The two ships are the HMS YORK, the newest and most modern of the British Royal Navy's Type 42 Air Defence Destroyers, and the Light Fleet Tanker, RFA BLACK ROVER.

According to a British High Commission press release, the ships deployed from UK in June and their tasking includes assisting with post-Tsunami reconstruction and participation in multi-national exercises in the Far East as the UK's component of the Five Power Defence Arrangement.

"Both ships also remain ready for immediate tasking at any time in response to world events and are capable of fulfilling a wide range of military and humanitarian roles."

During the visit to Brunei, the ships' crew will carry out a programme of diplomatic and sporting engagements as well as joint training with personnel from the Royal Brunei Navy. "Members of the ships' companies will also take the opportunity to visit principal tourist sites in the capital and to experience Brunei's unrivalled jungle," the press release said.

HMS YORK, commanded by Commander Matt Harvey, Royal Navy, is an Area Air Defence Destroyer and its primary weapon system is the SEADART AntiAir missile. According to the British High Commission, the 4.5-inch gun is capable of both surface engagements and shore bombardment. There is a comprehensive sensor fit both above and below the water, with particular bias towards anti-air warfare. The ship is well able to defend itself against aircraft and missile threats, using the PHALANX Close in Weapons System, the press release added.

HMS YORK also carries the LYNX Mark 3 helicopter. This is a highly manoeuvrable and versatile aircraft, equipped with its own sensors and is able to carry both anti-submarine weapons and the SEA SKUA anti-ship missile.

The British High Commission said the LYNX can also be used to deploy the Ship's Boarding Teams. HMS YORK has a ship's company of over 280 on board and can steam for over 5000 nautical miles before refueling. "It can carry 100 days food and manufacturers her own water," the press release said.

RFA BLACK ROVER, commanded by Captain K Rimell, is a Light Fleet Tanker of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, designed to replenish ships underway at sea with fuel, fresh water and stores in all weather conditions. "She has a helicopter deck served by a stores lift and is capable of conducting helicopter replenishment. Displacing 11,500 tonnes, she is powered by twin diesels and has a ship's company of 56," the press release said. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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