HMS Albion nearing end of refit

HMS Albion has entered into the next phase of its refit with the external hull work now largely complete.

HMS Albion is an amphibious transport dock, the first of the two-ship Albion-class.

Built by BAE Systems Marine in Barrow-in-Furness, Albion was launched in March 2001 by the Princess Royal. Her sister ship, Bulwark, was launched in November 2001, also from Barrow.

Designed as an amphibious warfare ship, Albion carries troops, normally Royal Marines, and vehicles up to the size of the Challenger 2 main battle tank. She can deploy these forces using four Landing Craft Utility (LCUs) and four Landing Craft Vehicle and Personnel (LCVPs). A flight deck supports helicopter operations.

Upon completion, the ship will have an improved combat system, with the addition of Phalanx, a 997-radar and a new command system.

Commander Mark Jones, head of HMS Albion’s weapons engineering, said:

“This has been a major milestone in HMS Albion’s regeneration and confirmation of her ship’s company and Babcock’s determination to complete the delivery of a multi-million pound complex refit package in 2017.”

Mike Whalley, Babcock Director Warship Support, said:

“This is an important point in the programme which has been achieved ahead of plan. There is a significant amount of commissioning work still to do but the dedicated and committed joint team remains fully committed to getting HMS Albion back into service with the Royal Navy on schedule.”

The package of work will see more than 110 alterations and additions incorporated into the ship.