The Royal Navy of the United Kingdom has introduced its latest asset, “Proteus,” a state-of-the-art ship that will enhance the nation’s underwater surveillance in areas of UK sovereign interest. Operated by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, Proteus will serve as a launchpad for remotely operated vehicles and will have specialist capabilities similar to those found in the oil and gas industries.
Named after the Greek god of rivers and water, Proteus is the first of two ships in the Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance (MROS) program. Its primary purpose is to advance science and technological development while protecting seabed telecommunications cables and oil and gas pipelines. The protection of undersea cables is vital for the global economy and communication between governments, as sabotage to this infrastructure poses a significant threat to the UK.
The unveiling of Proteus took place during a grand ceremony in London on October 10. The event was attended by RFA Commodore-in Chief Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh, and Akshata Murty, the wife of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who will serve as the ship’s sponsor.
Proteus will have a crew consisting of 26 Royal Fleet Auxiliary officers and sailors, supported by 60 Royal Navy specialists responsible for undersea surveillance, survey, and warfare systems.
The ship, initially named Topaz Tangaroa, was acquired by the UK government from Topaz Marine/P&O Maritime Logistics. It was converted from an oil rig-support vessel into a highly specialized maritime powerhouse. Equipped with a large cargo deck, a helipad, and a powerful crane, Proteus underwent final testing in September before heading to London for its naming ceremony.
Commanding Officer Captain Martin Jones expressed his honor at bringing Proteus to London and highlighted the unique opportunity to showcase the ship alongside the iconic HMS Belfast on the River Thames.
The Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance (MROS) vessels, including Proteus, were initially constructed by Vard in 2019. The UK Ministry of Defence purchased Proteus in November 2022 to protect against maritime threats and enhance the country’s understanding of such threats. It is expected to come into service by 2024 and will be equipped with advanced sensors and remotely operated and autonomous undersea drones to collect data in both UK and international waters.
The introduction of Proteus marks a significant development in the UK’s naval capabilities and its commitment to safeguarding national interests in the underwater domain.
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