Major refit works on the British survey ship 'HMS Echo' start at A&P Falmouth Shipyard, on the SW coast of England.
David Daniel A&P Falmouth Commercial Director said: “We are very familiar with HMS Echo, having carried out her previous refit five years ago and it’s great to have her back. We will carry out survey and maintenance works and upgrade of ship systems on behalf of BAE Systems. HMS Echo is expected to be with us until the end of October. Securing this repeat business reflects confidence in A&P’s knowledge, experience and ability to respond to the specific needs of our customers.”
The Plymouth-based HMS Echo has just completed a 19-month deployment in the Far East.
HMS Echo was launched in 2002 as the first ship in her class and was commissioned by the Navy in 2003. Built in Appledore, Devonport-based Echo carries out survey operations and provides environmental information in support of submarines and amphibious operations. She can also serve as a platform for a Mine Counter Measures command team.
Highlights of her most recent 19 month deployment in the Far East included discovering an underwater ‘mountain’ the size of Gibraltar in the Red Sea and being the first RN ship to visit Libya after the fall of Gaddafi.