|
The first of this advanced class of GRP-built mine
countermeasures vessels, HMS Brecon (decommissioning) entered service in
1979.
The Royal Navy has a small but highly efficient mine warfare force and
the Hunts were regarded as very costly when first entering service.
However they have proved their value repeatedly and modernisation
proceeds.
Hunt Class vessels have recently been fitted with Sonar 2193 which has
replaced the older Sonar 193M. In addition, the command system has been
replaced with a newer system developed from the NAUTIS system already
fitted in Sandown class vessels.
When deployed operationally Hunt Class vessels are fitted with
additional weapon systems and communications.
Also used for Fishery Protection duties.
| HUNT
CLASS Specifications |
| Length |
57.0 m |
| Beam |
10 m |
| Draught |
2.2 m |
| Displacement |
750 tons full load |
| Engines |
2 x Rushton Paxman Deltic 9-59K diesels |
| Max Speed |
15 knots |
| Range |
1,500 nm at 12 knots |
| Complement |
45 (5 officers) |
| Armament |
1 x 30 mm Gun (650
rounds/min 10 km range)
For operational deployments also fitted with:
2 x 20 mm Gun (900 rounds/min 2 km range) and
2 x 7.62 mm Machine guns |
| Sensors |
Full range of sensors
and systems for dealing with all types of ground and moored
mines. |
| NAME |
DATE
COMMISSIONED |
|
HMS Ledbury (M30) |
1979 |
|
HMS Cattistock (M31) |
1981 |
|
HMS Brocklesby (M33) |
1982 |
|
HMS Middleton (M34) |
1983 |
|
HMS Chiddingfold (M37) |
1983 |
|
HMS Hurworth (M39) |
1984 |
| HMS
Atherstone (M38) |
1986 |
|
HMS Quorn (M41) |
1988 |
|
