Zarvan
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BAE Systems has begun construction of the last of three River-class Batch 2 OPVs for the Royal Navy. The vessels feature several enhancements over the original three River-class vessels, and are significantly larger. Source: BAE Systems
Construction has begun on the last of three new River-class Batch 2 offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for the UK Royal Navy (RN).
The first steel for what will become HMS Trent was cut at BAE Systems' Govan shipyard on 7 October, according to the UK Ministry of Defence. The first and second vessels, Forth and Medway are scheduled to be delivered in 2017, followed by Trentin 2018.
The vessels are being purchased, at a cost of GBP348 million, in order to maintain UK shipbuilding activity - and are expected to lead to the early decommissioning of the three original River-class vessels.
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(125 words)
Construction begins on last of three River-class Bath 2 OPVs for the Royal Navy - IHS Jane's 360