Ocean upgrade paves way for Apache operations By Tim Fish
The UK Royal Navy helicopter carrier HMS Ocean is preparing to operate WAH-64D Apache attack helicopters following an upgrade of its aviation support facilities.
Improvements to the ship's aircraft ground starting and servicing capability were completed as part of a 10-month, GBP30 million (USD59.7 million) docking period conducted by Babcock Marine in Plymouth.
During the docking from September 2007 to June 2008, the landing platform helicopter (LPH) was also fitted with advanced DII(F) communications equipment, countermeasures and close-in-weapon systems. Accommodation and workshop areas were enhanced and machinery overhauled.
The UK became the first nation to certify the Apache for maritime operations after more than 750 take-offs and landings were performed from Ocean's flight deck in various sea states in 2004. However, until now the aircraft has only flown from the ship on a trials basis.
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© 2008 Jane's Information Group
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http://www.janes.com/news/defence/systems/jni/jni080730_1_n.shtml
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