RFA Tidespring has shared some impressive footage of the tanker refuelling HMS Portland, a Type 23 Frigate.
While this is a frequent event, we believe it’s important to show this to our readers. not least because it’s great footage.
Something familiar about being alongside Portland 🤔 lucky for us, this time it was @HMSPortland 🇬🇧 #rfa #logisticsatsea #careersatsea #shipping pic.twitter.com/fP9CIooPJb
— RFA Tidespring (@RFATidespring) October 13, 2024
HMS Portland is a Type 23 frigate of the Royal Navy, named after the extinct Dukedom of Portland, specifically referencing the third Duke, who served as Prime Minister. She was ordered in February 1996, laid down in January 1998, and launched in May 1999 by Marconi Marine on the River Clyde. HMS Portland was commissioned in May 2001 and is currently homeported at HMNB Devonport, Plymouth. The ship, designed for anti-submarine warfare, underwent a significant Life Extension (LIFEX) refit between 2018 and 2021, receiving upgraded weapons systems, radars, and sonar equipment. These upgrades include the Sea Ceptor missile system, the 997 surveillance radar, and the 2150 hull-mounted sonar, enhancing her operational capabilities.
HMS Portland has participated in a wide range of operations throughout her service, from anti-drug patrols in the Caribbean to anti-piracy missions off the Horn of Africa. She played a critical role in disaster relief operations in Belize following Hurricane Dean in 2007 and has been a part of international exercises such as Steadfast Defender. The ship gained historical significance when Commander Sarah West became the first woman to command a major Royal Navy warship in 2012.
RFA Tidespring is a Tide-class replenishment tanker of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, built by DSME in South Korea and commissioned into service in November 2017. The ship, designed to support Royal Navy operations by delivering fuel, fresh water, and other supplies, was laid down in December 2014 and launched in April 2015.
Tidespring is 200.9 metres long, has a displacement of 37,000 tonnes, and can carry 19,000 cubic metres of diesel oil and aviation fuel, along with fresh water and other supplies. The ship features a flight deck capable of landing a medium helicopter, such as a Merlin or Wildcat, and is equipped with sensors like the SharpEye radar and armament that includes Phalanx CIWS and 30mm cannons, depending on deployment needs.
Tidespring’s operational history includes her involvement in various naval exercises and support missions. After a delayed delivery due to electrical and insulation issues, she arrived in the UK in early 2017 for final fitting and trials. The tanker participated in the NATO Exercise Joint Warrior in 2018 and has supported Royal Navy vessels like HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Laid down in January 1998, and launched in May 1999. Blimey!