Test and trials barge LONGBOW is preparing to leave Portsmouth and embark on a series of trials in the Mediterranean to support the qualification of the PAAMS(S) system for use on the Type 45 Destroyer, following an extensive refit carried out by FSL under sub contract to BMT Marine Projects.

BMT Marine Projects were awarded the contract for the refit, conversion and operation of the trials barge LONGBOW in support of the Principle Anti Air Missile System, PAAMS(S), programme. PAAMS(S) is a system developed by UKAMS for the next generation Type 45 Destroyer. The system is designed to provide fleet protection from sustained multiple air attack and will play an important role in the future of naval operations.

BMT developed the refit, conversion design specification and competed the work via an international tendering exercise. Selected, primarily for their in depth knowledge of new to service weapon system installations, FSL was awarded the contract by BMT for completing the works to bring LONGBOW up to the required standard.

Until 2003 LONGBOW had been laid up in Brixham harbour since her past use as a UK Ministry of Defence Seawolf trials barge and maintained in a dehumidified state. Therefore LONGBOW was in a suitable condition to reactivate for the support of the PAAMS(S) project.

FSL’s works included installation of a new 26m mast structure, refurbishment of major and minor ships systems, refurbishment of equipment and the installation of the new Sampson radar and its associated control, support and monitoring equipment. All of the critical alignment requirements of the PAAMS(S) equipment were met by FSL during the preparation and installation of the major components, demonstrating their capability to meet the demanding installation requirements of modern naval equipment.   

Mal Lewis, FSL Engineering and Ship Support Director, said: “There have been some interesting and unique challenges in modifying and maintaining LONGBOW to meet with the requirements and demands of a technology development programme.

“Although there have been some delays in the supply of major equipments, the key sub contractors have played an important role in delivering the flexibility required spanning several years to meet the customer’s needs. This flexibility and team coherence has been critical to the success of the project to date.”

The PAAMS(S) qualification trials will include multiple supersonic and subsonic target tracking trials and a programme of missile firings to demonstrate the effectiveness of the system. FSL will continue to support Longbow through the next phase of the programme.