The fourth and final Tide class tanker for the UK's Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Tideforce, arrived at A&P Falmouth for customisation, fit-out and capability assessment trials in August.Following sister ships Tidespring, Tiderace and Tidesurge, the 39,000tonne vessel arrived at A&P's Falmouth ready for a four-month programme of works before entering service, expected in 2019.The programme of customisation work includes the installation of communications equipment and defensive systems and has been responsible for sustaining 300 jobs in Falmouth since A&P's contract began in 2015. Once customisation is complete, RFA Tideforce will undergo Capability Assessment Trials which include replenishment at sea trials and first-of-class flying trials.Minister for Defence Procurement Stuart Andrew said: "Tideforce's arrival completes our new tanker fleet, ensuring our warships can continue their essential work across the globe. Hundreds of Cornwall workers will now install state-of-the-art systems before she joins her sister ships on operations next year.
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