Samuel Beckett class continues to expand

摘要

Last year's delivery of the offshore patrol vessel LÉ William Butler Yeats, the third in a 90m class from Babcock Marine's Appledore yard in the UK, provided Ireland with the youngest naval fleet in the State's history. A further stage in the modernisation of Irish Naval Service capacity was signalled by a contract for a fourth vessel in the series, ensuring production continuity at the covered construction dock in north Devon. To be named LÉ George Bernard Shaw, the latest newbuild was laid down in February this year and is scheduled to be handed over during H2 2018. The Irish Department of Defence has put the combined value of the first three vessels at approximately €213 million (US$239 million), including the main armament and VAT. It is understood that the fourth ship was costed at €66 million (US$74 million), excluding the main gun and VAT.