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RFA Black Rover Refit gets underway at A&P Falmouth

From the Falmouth Packet, first published Saturday 1st Sep 2007.

A&P Falmouth has successfully won and started work on the refit of RFA Black Rover.

The vessel is one of two remaining small fleet tankers that support the Royal Navy in its global operations and is due to remain in RFA (Royal Fleet Auxiliary) service until at least 2012.

Work on the vessel, which arrived in Falmouth in July, will secure over 100 jobs. Worth £5m, the refit is scheduled to be complete in three months.

The work will involve an overhaul of two of the main engines, replacing a number of the generators, upgrading the fuel tanks, a full paint programme and accommodation upgrade.

Built in 1974 by Swan Hunter, Black Rover is designed to replenish ships at sea with fresh water, fuel and stores in all weather conditions. Displacing 11,500 tonnes, she is powered by twin diesels and has a ship's company of 56.

Peter Child, managing director of A&P Falmouth, said: "We are delighted to be involved in this project which is the latest in a series of major successes for A&P.

"The project will bring many benefits to Falmouth in being able to secure over 100 skilled jobs and continue to build important economic links for the town; it is a further demonstration of our leading position in the RFA and MoD market."

After its refit the vessel will be posted to the South Atlantic for a two year tour and will replace RFA Gold Rover, the other remaining small fleet tanker which underwent a major refit by A&P Falmouth in 2002.

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