British Destroyers Started Sea Trials

16.03.2012 Type 45 destroyers HMS Dragon and HMS Defender took sea to complete trials of onboard equipment and armament before first patrol, reported Royal Navy's official website.

HMS Dragon left Portland naval base on March 13. The destroyer conducts last phase of sea trials before her first mission. It is planned to test onboard systems and train the crew.

HMS Defender departed from Clyde shipyard (BAE Systems) on March 9 to carry out 28-day long trials off West Scotland.

Type 45 destroyers were designed so that the 8,500-ton ship looks like a small vessel on enemy's radar displays. Ship-based air defense system Sea Viper is capable to hit airplanes, helicopters, and antiship missiles at range of up to 120 km.

Previously built Daring-class ships are already in service of the Royal Navy. Destroyers HMS Dauntless and HMS Diamond have achieved the operational readiness status and are being prepared for long cruises.

The sixth ship – HMS Duncan – is at the final stage of completion; she will be launched at the year end and delivered to the Royal Navy late in 2013.