Work has started on HMS Scott to extend the vessel’s operational life into the early 2030s.

HMS Scott is the largest survey vessel in Western Europe, and the fifth largest vessel in the Royal Navy. Named for the famous Arctic explorer Robert Falcon Scott, she also has an auxiliary role as a mine countermeasures vessel.

APCL Group has welcomed the ship to its A&P Falmouth facility for her extensive Ship Life Extension Programme (SLEP), a significant engineering project overseen by Defence Equipment & Support.

APCL has been a defence partner for 12 years, during which it has delivered Through-Life Support to RFA Argus, LSDA, HMS Scott, Tide Class Tankers, Wave AO, RFA Fort Victoria, RFA Stirling Castle and RFA Proteus.

HMS Scott’s comprehensive overhaul will include a docking period in No. 3 Dock, a full hull blast and recoat, and the replacement of several onboard systems.

The vessel will also receive upgrades including new water management systems, sewage treatment plants, thermal oil boilers, and LED lighting installations. The project also involves the removal and overhaul of key components, such as four Cummins generators through the hull, replacement of internal doors and lifeboat davits.

The SLEP marks a crucial phase in ensuring the continued service of HMS Scott.

HMS Scott’s Commanding Officer, Samuel Nightingale, said:

“HMS Scott, and the capability she offers, is not only unique in the Royal Navy but also across the whole of NATO.

“Over the course of her service life so far she has probably surveyed a greater area of seabed than any other vessel in history but, following the decision last year to extend her until at least 2033, a major docking period is required to keep her performance and availability at the highest level.

“Following the Life Extension Programme at A&P Falmouth I look forward to returning to the fleet with a rejuvenated ship brimming with all the latest capabilities.”

Tim Henshaw, DE&S RFA Group Technical Superintendent said:

“With the announcement that HMS Scott would be extended in service, teams from D&ES’ Capability and Availability groups have worked with our A&P Falmouth to generate a comprehensive specification, identifying areas of obsolescence with existing systems and identifying replacement equipment that can be supported until the vessels Out of Service date.

“The Life Extension will include the overhaul and service of all major parts of the ships propulsion systems, ships services and mission systems. The time in port also allows for improvements in ship’s crew living and working areas, with the upgrade of the galley and improvements in accommodation areas.”

He added:

“With the project now under way the small team of DE&S staff based in Falmouth, with assistance from ship’s crew will provide oversight of the project to ensure work is completed to the highest standards.”

Matt Weetch, APCL’s Director of Defence, said:

“APCL is proud to be supporting HMS Scott in her life extension package, ensuring this vital platform can continue to support the Royal Navy well into the next decade.”

Mike Spicer, Managing Director of A&P Falmouth, added:

“HMS Scott is no stranger to Falmouth, and we are looking forward to working with her ship’s company, sub-contractors, and partners in DE&S to ensure this vital capability is ready and available for her future taskings.

“This support period also presents a great opportunity for our apprentices here at A&P Falmouth to gain valuable experience working on and supporting MOD vessels.”