25.09.2009
BRN aircraft carrier Ark Royal put to sea after 7-month overhaul on Friday.
Repair operations totaling to $ 640 000 carried out in Portsmouth by
BVT Surface Fleet company. According to Cap John Klink, commander of
Ark Royal, his aircraft carrier has become "faster and fresher" and "looking forward to occupying his place in the fleet's van".
Among innovations were new gas expelling system installed, computer network improved, reducers, main engines and diesel generators renewed, and the hull covered with antifouling coating
Intersleek for fuel economy.
The vessel is expecting 2-week sea trials and in new year
Ark Royal will be the flagman of British Royal Navy again picking up the slack from
Illustrious aircraft carrier.
Ark Royal is the last aircraft carrier of
Invincible-class. Its construction began on Dec 14, 1978, it was put afloat on June 2, 1981, in service since Nov 1, 1985. Its displacement is 20 600 t, length is 210 m, width is 36 m, draft is 7.5 m, speed is 30 knots, crew is 685 men, wing is 366 men, up to 78 attack fighters
Harrier GR.7/9 and helicopters
Sea King ASaC and
Merlin HM Mk.1 as an aircraft transport, up to 48 – as an aircraft carrier. Armament: 3 close-in warfare systems
Phalanx CIWS, 2
GAM-B01 artillery mounts.
Source: RusNavy.com
