The Official Magazine of TEAM PORTSMOUTH

Issue 2 Summer 2011

Commodore Rupert Wallace Speaks frankly about what lies ahead for the Portsmouth Flotilla

Meet the Waterfront Team Restoration work begins on the oldest ship in the fleet

The latest news from HMS Victory

Behind the scenes – when America came to Portsmouth Naval Base Find out what happened when the world’s largest warship came to visit

Princess Royal opens new road bearing her name JACK SNACKS // MY JOB // HERITAGE // COMPETITION //

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Welcome

Introductions and Welcome

welcome Naval Base Commander Portsmouth Commodore Rob Thompson, RN

Looking Ahead I am proud to report that your reputation for opening your arms to an ever increasing number of visitors is becoming a signature theme for “Team Portsmouth”. We were chosen to have the honour of hosting the United States Navy’s newest and mightiest aircraft carrier; “George H W Bush”, for her first ever foreign visit. Those of you fortunate enough to have toured her will have been struck, as I, by the genuinely awesome power she projects seemingly effortlessly – roll on the arrival of our very own Queen Elizabeth Class soon. I daily receive thank you letters from people from all walks of life who have been touched by the welcome they have received from the base, or indeed support from our people on the base. A lot of this is done unseen and unheralded by many of you in a formal or informal or even a voluntary role. I would like to give a public “thank you” to you all as the bereaved, relieved and joyous take “comfort and joy” from your support. The web of support services found within this Base makes things happen for many at times of need and crisis. It is to

your credit that you go about your business sensitively and with no fuss ensuring that your “customers” remain your focus no matter the other challenges placed upon us in these straightened times. It would be remiss of me not to recognise these challenges to all of us – as the Defence Reform Unit reports on overdue reduction in our overheads. This uncertainty on how challenging reduction targets will be meted out across DE&S is unsettling for all but what I am confident about is that “delivery” can only be made at the Waterfront. Therefore, the need for our outputs is enduring and that will underpin our strategy for our future in the near, medium and longer term. Finally, I know that you would wish me to thank, and wish him well for the future, Captain Paul Lemkes Royal Navy - Captain of the Base, as he moves on to be Defence Attaché in Madrid, for his vibrant and positive leadership over the last few years. I hope you enjoy reading about the activities and achievements of all your friends and colleagues. Have an enjoyable summer break whenever you have the opportunity.

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Contents Summer 2011

contents Princess Royal opens Trafalgar Gate Link Road The new link road off the M275 gained the royal seal of approval at a recent ceremony and now bears the name of the Princess Royal. For the full report and pictures See Page 8

Shoreside is published quarterly and is a collaborative publication produced by the member organisations of TEAM PORTSMOUTH. The printing cost of this magazine is generated through advertising

3 Welcome and Intro

Welcome to this edition of Shoreside from Naval Base Commander Commodore Rob Thompson

6 Look Ahead

Check out forthcoming events in and around Portsmouth Naval Base

12 Base Review

Look back at what’s been going on at Portsmouth Naval Base in the past few months

14 Welcome to HMS Diamond Shoreside welcomes the latest Type 45 to be commissioned into the fleet

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16 Historic Review

Find out more about the intricate work involved in building the new Mary Rose Museum

Rupert Wallace - Comporflot Find out what Commodore Wallace’s role involves and how he sees the Portsmouth Flotilla responding to pressure in the face of demanding schedules and increased workloads.

22 Interview Rupert Wallace

Meet Rupert Wallace, Commodore of the Portsmouth Flotilla On the Cover

24 Fleet Snapshot

And in the Chit-Chat feature discover more about the man behind the title. See Page 22/23

Find out the latest about the Portsmouth Flotilla

22 QE Class Update Read the latest news on the progress being made with the building of the Queen Elizabeth Class carrier, with updates from Portsmouth including the latest spectacular photos. See pages 32/33

32 Waterfront Team It’s a real team effort keeping the base’s docks and jetties prepared for the daily arrivals and departures at one of the UK’s busiest ports. See Page 38

26 HMS Victory

Restoration work is now underway on the oldest ship in the Royal Navy On the Cover

28 Global Reach of Logistics

Find out more about the operation that involves 30,000 customers a year

30 HMS Edinburgh Trial

A recent trial is set to revolutionise the way Fleet Time Support is carried out

32 Carrier Update

Catch-up with the latest news on the QE Class carriers and the work going on in Portsmouth

34 Heritage Field Gun

It takes more than sheer muscle power to be part of Field Gun Crew

37 Support Units in Action

Find out what’s involved in keeping RN ships at sea across the world

38 Waterfront Team

Waterfront operations at one of the UK’s busiest ports On the Cover

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40 Me & My Job

Meet Sally Jones and Lewis Mihell

Credits

Contributors / Magazine

TRAVELLING around Portsmouth Naval Base meeting new people to interview for the pages of this magazine, I never cease to be amazed by the sheer scope of what goes on behind the perimeter walls. Soft Services manager Kris Fitzjohn summed it perfectly when she described the base as a ‘town within a city.’ Her role is to ensure everything from cleaning, waste removal, landscaping and the Pay as You Dine contract run like clockwork – all essential to the smooth-running of the base (Page 36). It’s easy to take for granted all the work that goes on keeping the waterside safe and running efficiently. But an interview with Waterside Manager David Pace put the spotlight on the teamwork and vital roles played by everyone on a daily basis (Page 38). With so much going on, it guarantees there is always plenty to write about for Shoreside – I hope you enjoy reading about it. Kate Thompson Editor.

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Photos/Images

Julian Hickman www.1blueharbour.com RN Fleet Photographic Unit (P) The News, Portsmouth www.defenceimages.mod.uk Steve Wallace and Claire Williamson

Design & Advertising

Lance Publishing Ltd 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 512624 Sales: Christina Mclean www.lancepublishing.co.uk Printed by Lance Print Ltd Shoreside is published quarterly. Next copy deadline is end of August 2011 All contributions and correspondence should be sent - preferably by email - to: The Editor, Shoreside Magazine, Room 222, Naval Base HQ, Victory Building, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3LS Email: [email protected] All contributions are included at the Editor’s discretion. View all back issues of Shoreside at: www.teamportsmouth.com/publications Front Cover Image - USS George WH Bush Courtesy of The News Portsmouth Shoreside Magazine is published quarterly and is a collaborative publication produced by the TEAM PORTSMOUTH.

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Look Ahead

NEW TAKE ON OLD TREASURES AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL NAVY IN an exciting new collaboration between the National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN) and nine artists, New, Found Treasures is an exhibition presenting new works interspersed with treasures found in the museum. The artworks are to celebrate 100 years of collecting and will encourage visitors to engage with the collections in ways they may never have done before. Professional artists and master craftsmen are exhibiting dazzling new treasures inspired by the

SUMMER FUN AT THE HISTORIC DOCKYARD CELEBRATING 150 years of service, HMS Warrior 1860 will be having fun at the Victorian seaside with thirty officers and crew on-board for a weekend of naval traditions on Saturday July 30th and Sunday July July 31 from 10am - 4.30pm. There will be seaside entertainment including sea songs, knot tying, street entertainers, Punch & Judy show, games & pastimes plus children’s activities and workshops. THE National Museum of the Royal Navy will once again transform Victory Arena for their Big Game Weekend, on Saturday August 6 & Sunday August 7 from 11am-4.30pm. Visitors of all ages are invited to join in the fun and games with an impressive giant game of the classic ‘Battleships’, quoits,

NMRN collections. The nine artists (Linda Baker, Anita Bruce, Jan Byrne, Zannah Cooper, Mel Day, Sandra Hurll, Julieanne Long, Batool Showghi and Helen Snell) have reinterpreted the collections exploring themes of courage, hardship, remembrance, love, freedom and reconciliation. From fine art ceramics to laser cut models, wire sculptures, mixed media photography art books and textiles, New, Found Treasures will showcase the collections as an on-going, everchanging source of inspiration. Exhibition runs until December.

bowls, ‘float a boat’, face painting, the traditional game of uckers and other naval favourites from throughout the ages. Plus, for the older members of the family there is the opportunity to see ‘Tokyo Rose’ with her Pacific war game in the Victory Gallery. EVERY Thursday in August, HMS Victory will be the focus for fun activities inspired by traditional sailor crafts and pastimes from knots and ropes, make do and mend, and scrimshaw carvings – there will even be an opportunity to make your own game to take home.

HMS DRAGON – THE ROYAL NAVY’S LATEST TYPE 45 DESTROYER - WILL MAKE HER FIRST ENTRY INTO PORTSMOUTH IN AUGUST. SHE is the fourth of six Type 45 destroyers being built for the Royal Navy. All six are scheduled to be in service by the middle of this decade and will be based in Portsmouth. She is the latest in an illustrious line of ships bearing the name of Dragon. The first was a 140 ton three masted ship dating back to 1546.

Remember … Naval Base pass holders get 25% off their site ticket. Entry is FREE to service personnel visiting Victory and NMRN and up to four members of their family. All other attractions on site are charged at child price for the service personnel only.

GO BALLISTIC JOIN the fun at the Royal Marines Museum on August 14 when there will be a day of hands-on science based fun, bangs and noise. Youngsters can experience the secrets of the power of

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gunpowder, learn how to make their own water rocket and have a go at launching water bombs from a catapult. To find out more about this event and others go to www. royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk

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Focus

ROYAL VISIT // TRAFALGAR GATE

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

HRH The Princess Royal officially opened the new link road off the M275 into Trafalgar Gate at Portsmouth Naval Base. The road – built by the city council to reduce congestion and air pollution in the city centre - will be known as Princess Royal Way. After the ceremony The Princess Royal met council staff and contractors who were involved in the project. Commodore Thompson said: “The new link road is proving a big hit with the many thousands of employees at the base and our many visitors too. It is providing greatly improved access in and out of the base and is cutting congestion in the city centre. And as we look to the future the road will help the base in its role as home to the majority of the surface fleet, including the new aircraft carriers.” A wall alongside the road has been decorated with a mural by local artists from Art and Soul Traders, showing ten naval ships through history, starting with the Mary Rose and ending with one of the new aircraft carriers now being built. The council put about £1.8m into the £8m scheme, with the Department for Transport, the Ministry of Defence and the European Union contributing the rest.

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HRH Celebrates Museum Centenary HRH The Princess Royal, patron of the National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN), marked Portsmouth’s enduring naval legacy at a special event to celebrate the centenary year of a significant naval museum within the Dockyard. During her visit to the museum, the Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative plaque and also witnessed the unveiling of a commissioned stained glass window, which was designed and created by local artist Ross Pringle from Fareham. The window illustrates key dates and people associated with the museum over the last 100 years.

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Focus

LUCY O’CONNOR // OLYMPIC DREAM

LUCY IS A REAL KNOCK-OUT BOXER Lucy O’Connor has only one thing on her mind – and that’s to be picked to represent Great Britain at the Olympics in 2012. It’s the first time Women’s Boxing has featured in the Games and the fact they are taking place in London makes gaining the one and only place available at her weight in the squad even more important. Lucy, 32, a lieutenant based at Portsmouth Naval Base, explained her journey to the selection process at the World Championships next May in China has not been without its challenges. She has had to drop weight to fight as a flyweight (51kg) rather than the featherweight (57kg) which she is used to – and she must beat fellow Brit Nikki Adams to compete at the Olympics. “It’s great for this country that Nikki and I are the world’s No 2 and 3 respectively but it does make it tough for me as I will have to fight her at some point and there is only one place available. “To be a flyweight at 51kg is right at the edge of my healthy weight and only allows for eight per cent body fat so I have to be careful with my immune system,” she said. Lucy got into boxing when she took part in an RN charity event in the Caribbean that saw her get in the ring with the man who is now her trainer and husband. “I ended up giving him a black eye so he insisted I join the novice boxing team and I haven’t looked back since. “He’s my rock – some people wonder about me being married to Stuart when he is the RN Boxing Coach but he doesn’t take any nonsense from me and he really helps me to stay motivated,” she said. While some may question women taking part in boxing, Lucy believes the new Olympic sport will win over the doubters. “I’m sure that when people see us in action they will be surprised and they will accept the sport. “I always take it as a compliment when people say they can’t tell the difference between us and the boys when we get in the ring,” she said.

At a Glance A Typical Training Day 8am – Running or interval training for an hour 10am – Up to two hours of technique training using pads and bags. 2pm – Gym session using pads and bags but more explosive. 7pm – Five mile run “There are days when I wish I had taken up tiddly-winks as a sport. “But I really do love boxing.”

Photo by - LPhot Simpson

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Review

SNAPSHOT // NAVAL BASE UPDATE CONSTRUCTION  STARTS ON  PORTSMOUTH’S NEW  ISLAND WORK on the forward island structure for the first Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier has begun at BAE Systems’ facility in Portsmouth Naval Base.  Employees and guests watched as Second Sea Lord and Commander in Chief Naval Home Command, Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery cut the first steel, formally marking the start of production on the island structure.

TYPE 45 TRAINING SIMULATOR UNVEILED AT HMS SULTAN A BRAND new simulator that is an exact replica of the ship’s control centre on a Type-45 warship is now in operation at HMS Sultan in Gosport, one of the Royal Navy’s training bases.

45 Integrated Propulsion Officer, said: “It reflects exactly what is on board a Type 45 Destroyer, and plays through real life scenarios that happen as they would on the ship.

The training simulator for engineers joining the Navy’s newest fleet of warships is a series of nine rooms which are connected in the same way as onboard, creating a realistic environment for the sailors to practise and hone their skills

“People can either be booked in to come and do a course on the simulator or if a ship comes alongside then there is the opportunity for them to come along and book some time here. It’s a very good way for them to keep their training current.

There are around 18 different scenarios programmed into the system which simulates, in real time, the Type 45’s sophisticated electric propulsion, generation, and auxiliary machinery.

“It is really important for us to have this type of facility because the technology on ships is so advanced – it gives the guys who will be operating the machines the confidence to use the high tech equipment. It’s a safe environment for them - if a problem occurs then we can just reboot the computers whereas it’s not that easy on a ship.”

The rooms are laid out to represent the ship’s Platform Management System (PMS) consoles in the Ship’s Control Centre, the panels for the main machinery and high and low voltage switchboards – all integral to maintaining the ship’s functions. Lieutenant Philip Sharkey, Type

Housing the bridge and navigation systems for the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers, the forward island is fundamental to the effective command and control of the vessel. The island also includes the vessel’s long range radar, providing wide area surveillance up to 400 kilometres. Vice Admiral Montgomery said: “I am pleased to start official construction for HMS Queen Elizabeth’s forward island. The Queen Elizabeth Class will be joint assets for defence and, as such, will be a fundamental component of the UK’s joint capability over the coming decades. “By routinely carrying a Joint Force Air Group they will deliver air power from the sea wherever and whenever required and in

STAFF at the National Museum of the Royal Navy at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard marked Portsmouth’s enduring naval legacy, by choosing their favourite museum items to celebrate the centenary year of a significant Naval Museum in the Dockyard. Here are just a couple of selections: The Royal Barge of King Charles 2nd (chosen by Bryn Jenkins, Technician)

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Geoff Searle, Queen Elizabeth Class Programme Director for the Aircraft Carrier Alliance, said: “Today’s steel cut demonstrates the huge amount of momentum behind the Queen Elizabeth Class programme. With all but one section of the ship now in production, we are seeing significant progress, with thousands of people across the country working to deliver the nation’s flagships to our armed forces.” Designed with a twin island configuration, the Queen Elizabeth Class will benefit from its flying operations being separated from the running of the vessels, resulting in maximum flexibility and greater control of flight deck operations. BAE Systems will also undertake the build of the aft island, which will be responsible for all air operations and air traffic control, with production expected to start in the autumn.   Meanwhile, workers at the company’s Govan shipyard are gearing up for the departure of Lower Block 03 for transportation to Rosyth in August.

The simulator was officially opened by Flag Officer Sea Training Rear Admiral Chris Snow and has been named after HMS Diadem – a former stokers training ship.

STAFF AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL NAVY CHOSE THEIR FAVOURITE ITEMS FOR CENTENARY

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a stronger and more decisive form than ever before. They will undoubtedly prove a tremendous asset for promoting and protecting Britain’s national and global interests. Real progress is being made on this project and I look forward to seeing the next major block, Lower Block 03, arrive in Rosyth in August.”

- “I think that Nelson’s Funeral Barge would be my favourite item because it typifies the great

esteem in which he was held by the Nation (or maybe because of my great age!!!!)”. Enigma Machine (chosen by Giles Gould, Enterprise Manager) – “It is an artefact that I see as having had a tangible impact on the course of world events.” Museum staff were asked to select their favourite objects or an object that had made a significant contribution to naval history from the collections and are keen to hear from visitors on their own personal favourites too! Suggestions can be emailed to: [email protected] and they will post it on their website www.royalnavalmuseum.org/ Centenary.htm along with a picture of the object.

LORD NELSON HAS BEEN RETURNED TO HIS FORMER GLORY AS PART OF THE PREPARATIONS FOR THE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL NAVY Figurehead Historian, Richard Hunter and his colleague Philip Hudson attracted a lot of visitor attention and questions as they spent over a week on site, painting the figurehead of HMS Trafalgar in Victory Arena with fast drying enamel paint that should ensure its future for the next decade. Nelson is now without the detail of his right eye…as per the original figurehead of 1841. Nelson famously lost the sight in his right eye at the siege of Calvi on 10

Before

July 1794 and this is how sailors would have recognised the image of him. The eye has been painted in for previous restorations, so it feels right that now the figurehead should be returned to its original form to celebrate 100 years of naval heritage. Richard commented: “Over the years so many fine looking figureheads have been lost due to apathy and neglect. Important and valuable relics of the world’s rich maritime heritage have been allowed to just simply rot away; the catalogue of lost carvings grows each year. “So it has been an absolute pleasure to work on the HMS Trafalgar figurehead. The weather has been great and everyone has been nice, it has been a joy!”

After

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Focus

HMS DIAMOND COMMISSIONING

HMS Diamond

Commissioned into Fleet

HMS Diamond – the third of the Royal Navy’s new formidable Type 45 destroyers – has been formally commissioned into the fleet. Hundreds of guests including families of the 190 ship’s company attended a colourful ‘Christening’ ceremony at Portsmouth Naval Base. Secretary of State for Defence, Dr Liam Fox, said: “The Type 45 programme is an example of how we are investing in capabilities for the future. This ceremony marks another step in the delivery of six of the most powerful air defence destroyers ever built for the Royal Navy. These new ships will provide the UK with a world class military capability that will form a key part of the Future Force 2020.” Principal guests were Lady Johns, the ship’s sponsor who launched the ship at BAE Systems’ Govan shipyard on the River Clyde in November 2007 – and Commander-In-Chief Fleet Admiral Sir Trevor Soar. The ceremony was conducted by the Venerable Scott Brown, Chaplain of the Fleet.

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In traditional Royal Navy fashion the ceremony was rounded off with the cutting of a commissioning cake. Performing the honour was the Commanding Officer’s wife, Joanne Clarke, and Engineering Technician Ross Hindmarch, aged 17, who is the youngest member of the ship’s company. Commander Ian Clarke said the event was a proud moment for all on board HMS Diamond. “As HMS Diamond nears the end of her trials phase, the ceremony marks our transition to front line service. Thereafter, the emphasis is combat readiness in preparation for our first deployment next year. I’m thrilled that so many families, friends and affiliates, some from overseas, were part of our momentous day.”

ENVIRONMENT // ENERGY SAVINGS // RECYCLE

HMS DIAMOND THE Type 45 Destroyer is the largest and most powerful Air Defence Destroyer ever built for the Royal Navy. It will provide UK Defence with a world-class military capability. The prime role of the Type 45 Destroyer will be Air Defence: protecting UK national and allied/coalition forces against enemy aircraft and missiles. It will carry the UK variant of the world-leading Principal Anti-Air Missile System (PAAMS) including the UK designed Sampson multi-function radar. This system, which has been named Sea Viper by the Royal Navy, will set new standards in Air Defence, capable of defending the Type 45 and ships in its company from multiple attacks from even the most sophisticated anti-ship missiles and aircraft. In addition to its world class Air Defence capability, one of the Type 45’s greatest assets is its versatility. The Type 45 will be able to act as a base platform for a deployable Headquarters, from where operations can be commanded. This will result in an improvement in our expeditionary capability. The Type 45 will also be able to embark up to 60 troops (over and above its own complement) and their equipment, and support them with a modern medical facility that can deliver surgical capability. Type 45 also has a large flight deck that can accommodate helicopters up to and including the size of a Chinook. The ship can also take up to 700 people if necessary to support a civilian evacuation from war zones or natural disasters. The Type 45 is not only a world class Anti-Air Warfare Destroyer. It will also act as a multi-role, general-purpose platform, able to contribute effectively to a range of world-wide maritime and joint operations.

T45

DARING DAUNTLESS DIAMOND DRAGON DEFENDER DUNCAN

D32 D33 D34 D35 D36 D37

Displacement Length Beam Complement Armament

7,350 tonnes 152.4 metres 21.2 metres 191 Principal Anti Air Missile System Seaviper including the Aster 15/30 missile, 114mm Medium Calibre Gun, Close-range guns - ASCG and Mini-Gun, Surface Ship Torpedo Defence system. Lynx or Merlin helicopter can receive Chinook/SKASACs

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Big Green Commuter Challenge

THE Big Green Commuter Challenge is a competition run by Portsmouth City Council every year to encourage local people and businesses to leave their cars at home and get to work by other sustainable means such as the bus, train, ferry, cycle, moped/ motorbike, walk or car share and therefore save ‘green miles’. At Portsmouth Naval Base many of you joined in and did your bit for the community and also the environment. Last year we saved 2,409 green miles and this year we were determined to save even more – and we did it. This year’s total was an amazing 9,269 green miles, equating to 3,643kgs of carbon saved. James Pollington, of the Environment & Energy team, said: “If we can do that in one week, imagine what could be saved in a year. We’ve calculated it would be approx 189 tonnes of carbon and that really is something worth pursuing. “Of the 14 large companies in Portsmouth who entered the competition, we are very pleased to say that all our hard work paid off and we came a very creditable joint fourth.” As well as a Portsmouth City Council prize draw for all who entered their green miles, the naval base held its own draw including two bikes and five sets of cat eye lights and cable locks kindly donated by WIGGLE the online cycle company. Prizes were awarded by NBC(P) Commodore Thompson alongside Dan Burdge a representative from WIGGLE.

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Review

HISTORIC DOCKYARD // MARY ROSE UPDATE

BUILDING ON THE PAST

How Portsmouth Based Construction Company, Warings, Is Facing The Challenge Of Building The Mary Rose Museum “THIS is a one-off. We will never do another job like this. “We are building a structure over a structure that houses one of the world’s most precious objects, in a dry dock that is itself a scheduled ancient monument that leaks – so yes, I would say it is a challenge.” That’s how Waring’s project manager Andy Owen sums up the task ahead of his team as they work on completing the new Mary Rose museum on time for the scheduled opening in Autumn 2012. Architect Chris Williamson has described the design for the museum as being like a jewellery box with the Mary Rose as the precious gem. Building around the structure that currently houses the Mary Rose is challenging enough but the added difficulty of the dock that houses her being a scheduled ancient monument dating back to 1801, has influenced every step of the process. Andy explained: “English Heritage are monitoring everything we do and we have to adhere to what they say.

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“We can’t have any fixings going into the structure that can’t be reversed, that way if ever the dock needed to be returned to the original it could be. “Every stone we remove from the site has to be catalogued and referenced to a GPS reference we then have to produce 3D drawings to show their exact location,” he said. Safety issues have been paramount on the work site and Andy and his team have had to be especially careful when working over the existing structure.

“While working or placing steels over the structure, we have an over-sized crane for the job. We enclosed the cherry picker with netting and all operatives have their tools on tether lines secured to the cherry picker so there’s no chance of them being dropped. “So much planning went into this project before we even started on site - it has been fascinating and a real challenge to be involved in such a high profile project,” he said.

Visit Careers Showcase For Science & Engineering At PNB TOP science and engineering graduates had the chance to find out more about careers in ship building when they visited the UK Nest Careers Day at Portsmouth Naval Base. The aim of the event was to show graduates the opportunities available as the Royal Navy looks forward to a new era with the QE Class carriers coming into service and replacement nuclear submarines, frigates and patrol vessels. Representatives from 14 companies and organisations including BAE Systems, DE&S, Rolls-Royce and Thales took part in the event.

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Review

VISITING FOREIGN SHIPS

A WARM WELCOME FOR USS GEORGE H W BUSH CREW

Image: Courtesy of The News Portsmouth

IT TOOK months of detailed planning to prepare for the visit of the American carrier USS George H W Bush – and the long weekend ferrying 4,000 people back and forth each day was nothing short of a triumph. Base Services Manager Commander David Hilton explained he first learned of the visit six months beforehand, when planning first got underway. “I met with the US Naval Attache in London six weeks before the visit to ensure we had everything in place”. “When you are dealing with 4,000 people a day going back and forth to the ship through the naval base it requires a great deal of planning,” he said. Commander Hilton and his team dealt with: commercial contracts preparing the jetty (Beach Head) that was to become ‘Little America’ during the visit security.

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under cover of a giant marquee. MLS staff arrived on site the week leading up to the Carrier Strike Group arrival and did not leave until the ship had departed. “They did a roaring trade in burgers and the like, but no one seemed terribly interested in the salads and fruit,” observed Commander Hilton. During the visit there were many receptions on board and the American Navy welcomed the chance to show off the 100,000 tonne vessel that boasts 80 F18 jets. “There was a ministerial reception and the 1st Sea Lord also visited the ship. “The liberty boats we normally use for a visit only take 60 people at a time so we had to arrange larger vessels including one of the Gosport ferries,” he said.

“We had to make the jetty secure and put in place detection equipment like you would have at an airport.

The American government picked up the bill for every element of the visit and a personal email from Rear Admiral Nora Tyson, (Commander Carrier Strike Group 2) to Commander Hilton clearly illustrated how delighted she was with the visit.

“We also had armed Ministry of Defence Police launches patrolling around the ship to keep people at a safe distance.

“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the port visit and the hospitality shown by the community and the Royal Navy,” she said.

“We even arranged for the crew to have access to a bureau de change on the jetty.

And Commander Hilton echoed those sentiments: “It was a great example of Team Portsmouth performing at its best”.

“Catering for the thousands of men and women that passed through the Beach Head site was overseen and provided by a private contractor (shipping agent) called MLS, all

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“Lessons learned will be used for future visits,” he said.

Top: George H W Bush anchored in the Solent Above: Flight deck officer on board sister ship USS Theodore Roosevelt demonstrates the use of the ‘Ouija Board’ for tracking of aircraft and their current status Below: Commander David Hilton

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Focus

ESTATE INFRASTRUCTURE // BOILER SHUTDOWN VISION 2020 // TECHNOLOGY // INNOVATION // COST SAVINGS

At a Glance 70 Mega Watts (MW) of boiler capacity compared to an estimated peak demand of 22MW. Steam is produced at a temperature of 170 degrees under a pressure of 6 Bar. A significant amount of the steam is recycled as ‘condensate’ for re-heating -in addition, 87,000 cubic metres of fresh water is used to top up the system via a Reverse Osmosis Plant per year. The Reverse Osmosis process provides quality boiler feed water which ultimately helps prevent scaling in the boilers.

First Ever Complete Steam Shutdown STEAM has been used at Portsmouth Naval Base since the 1860s – but this summer for the first time ever there will be a complete system shutdown. Until now, each of the four boiler houses have been individually shut down for annual refits – while areas of the steam pipe work are isolated and opened for inspection every five years.

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“The Type 42 destroyer is the last class of ship to require shore steam and will be phased out of service in the next few years. FFO was replaced by diesel in the 80’s before the boilers were converted to being dual fired to Gas some six years ago.” Major planning work has been carried out ahead of the shutdown but Mick explained there were still some risks.

The move should save hundreds of thousands of pounds in the coming years and contribute to carbon savings being maintained at 30 per cent.

“A total steam shutdown causes all the pipework and fittings that have been subjected to steady high temperatures to contract or shrink. 

BAE Systems Plant and Utilities Manager Mick Huitson, said: “Since the days of HMS Warrior [1860], Royal Navy warships used steam for their main propulsion fuelled originally by coal before being replaced at the time of World War 2 by heavy furnace fuel oil (FFO).

“When re-energising the system the differing materials and thicknesses of pipes, flanges and valves expand at different rates, thereby creating a potential for numerous leaks.

“Consequently it made sense to use the same fuel to raise vast quantities of steam for ships alongside. Similarly, it was practical to use the same energy source for all the buildings throughout the dockyard, the cost of which was relatively insignificant in the scheme of things during that era.

“It is therefore imperative this process is done in a controlled and gradual manner to minimise the risk.  “However, over what amounts to many miles of steam and condensate pipe-work, some leaks are inevitable - but we will be ready,” he said.  

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Feature

COMMODORE RUPERT WALLACE // COMPORFLOT // RN

He’s the Barometer of the Portsmouth Flotilla

Rupert AT A time when the Royal Navy has never been busier with conflicts in Afghanistan and Libya – and five fewer ships available – the barometer role that Commodore Rupert Wallace performs has taken on an even greater significance. As Commodore of the Portsmouth Flotilla he is responsible for all frigates, destroyers, minehunters, patrol vessels and fishery protection ships based in Portsmouth. In practice what that role means is engaging with the ships while at sea, talking to the ships’ companies and feeding back to Commanderin-Chief of the Fleet any pressures they might be feeling. Speaking from his office on the base, Commodore Wallace explained: “When I look out of my window I see ships and sailors – and ultimately that’s what it’s all about. “Our business is knowledge – by knowing ships inside and out we can reflect their needs best. “Whenever I make a visit I ensure it is while they are at sea because you get a totally different response than when a ship is alongside. “Gauging that pressure or temperature within the ship’s company is key and I can feed back to my boss where there is a concern,” he said. Having come to Portsmouth from a MOD

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posting in 2009, Commodore Wallace clearly relishes this role and the opportunity it gave to get back to sea. “During my time here I have visited most of the ships – certainly all the frigates and destroyers and a large number of the smaller ships. “With any visit I have two specific objectives – the first is for me to continue to get to know the ship’s company so I can form a view of their effectiveness. “And secondly it is an opportunity for the ship’s company to come back at me and I can reflect that upwards.” With increased demand to get ships turned around and back at sea as quickly as possible, Commodore Wallace said he was aware of the increased pressure on crews. “People are very busy. With fewer ships and the same number of military tasks, the pressure is pretty unremitting and there is no slack. “But as long as people are paid well and getting time off, with proper support from us when they are back, people can cope with being that busy. “When I came to Portsmouth two years ago I was struck by how high the morale was and since then we have been pushed even harder with new operations in places like Libya - and interestingly morale is still high,” he said.

Making sure everything goes to plan while ships are back in Portsmouth is critical and Commodore Wallace said he was impressed with the standard of work on the ships and the way Naval Base Commander Commodore Rob Thompson provides the support package for ship’s companies. “The quality of work is very high here – it’s critical the two cultures understand each other and having worked at both Rosyth and Devonport, I can say the relationship here is very good between the Royal Navy and BAE Systems,” he said. The demands the Portsmouth flotilla is facing are also set against the backdrop of 5,000 redundancies across the fleet, with 1,606 job losses coming in September and more to follow. “There is nothing good about redundancy and you won’t get any spin on it from around here. “We have to be transparent and fair – and if we achieve that it makes it easier to deal with the unpleasant bit. “The prize will be for us to emerge from the current process with the right numbers of people for the ships we have now but at the same time allowing us to develop new branches and skills ready for the new classes of ship,” he said.

Commander in 1995, Rupert Wallace attended the Joint Service Defence College at Greenwich before going back to the Ministry of Defence with responsibilities for developing UK defence relations with North Africa (and acting as Defence Attache in Tunisia).

At a Glance •

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He joined the Navy in 1981 aged 23 and served on HMS Invincible during the Falklands Campaign. He qualified as a Diving Officer in 1983. He served as Bridge Watchkeeper and Navigating Officer in HMS Nottingham and Yarmouth respectively. In 1991 he was appointed as Flag Lieutenant to the Fleet Commander, prior to commanding the minehunter HMS Inverness. Promoted to

CHIT CHAT Questions you've always wanted to ask Which living person do you most admire? Admiral Sir Sandy Woodward. I’ve known him since I was a little boy as he is a friend of my father’s. I fought under him in the Falklands as a young cadet and found him to be such a charismatic and intelligent leader and he still is. What is your favourite book? - and what are you reading right now? Nevil Shute’s ‘Round the Bend’ is my favourite because it’s such a wonderful story about early aviation mixed in with some interesting spirituality. I’m just about to read Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles book ‘Cables from Kabul: The Inside Story of the West’s Afghanistan – I knew him in Riyadh and he is sure to have some interesting and provocative views. What is your guiltiest pleasure? Folk music. I know it’s seen as oldfashioned, very parochial and only liked by people who dress weirdly and have a beard – but I really like it. Kate Rusby, Joan Baez and the new Trembling Bells are my favourites.

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A short spell in Fleet Headquarters was followed by command of the frigate HMS Sutherland in 1999. He returned ashore in 2001 as Appointer (and career manager) to the 300 Warfare Commanders.

in Singapore with no shoes on shouting ‘ot, ot’ – I was about three years old and had been so appallingly behaved my mother made me get out of the car and run along beside it on the hot tarmac. My father was in the Navy and (despite this episode) we spent a wonderful couple of years in Singapore. What was your favourite toy? Corgi cars – I loved them as a child and I still do now. I have virtually all my toys from childhood still and after 45 years I am just about to start re-building my train set. I love toys and have always wanted to run a toyshop. None of the toys would be educational, they have got to be fun. What was the first album you ever bought? It was Daltry by Roger Daltry. It was 1973 and it was the first LP he made after he left The Who – I still love to play my vinyl. What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Always to take into the account that the other person may be right. I spent an awful lot of time in my youth being full of certitude and so judgemental. But I’ve learned the hard way that however unreasonable the other person may seem, it may be me that’s wrong.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party? It would have to include the late Eric Newby, whose fabulous life as a travel writer I covet. For the others: anyone prepared to leave their day life behind and ready to drink lots of wine. How do you relax? I’m not into opera, ballet or jazz – I prefer to relax by doing things like cycling or swimming. What is your earliest memory? I can remember running along a road

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Review

SNAPSHOT // PORTSMOUTH FLOTILLA UPDATE

MID-CHANNEL RESCUE MISSION FOR HMS MERSEY FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR HMS EDINBURGH

HMS Mersey rushed to the aid of an angling vessel off Dover after its skipper became ill.

HMS Edinburgh paid an informal visit to the port of Mindelo on the Island of Sao Vicente, Cape Verde Islands on her way to the Falkland Islands as part of a six-month South Atlantic deployment.

The Portsmouth-based Royal Navy patrol vessel was on routine fishery protection patrols about 20 miles south-west of Rye, East Sussex, when she heard a distress call to Dover coastguard on her VHF radio.

While there the ship’s company of the Type 42 destroyer took the opportunity to meet with the local law enforcement agencies and will continue to work with international partners to provide security on the high seas and protect British interests. Commanding Officer of HMS Edinburgh Commander Paul Russell said: “Mindelo is becoming a regular

HMS ST ALBANS BIDS FAREWELL FOR NEXT SIX MONTHS HMS St Albans has set sail for a sixmonth operational deployment of the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf. The 4,900 tonne Type-23 frigate will be taking over duties from HMS Iron Duke and will be patrolling busy shipping lanes and providing security for the region alongside other coalition forces. Her work will include counter-terrorism and anti-piracy operations, exercises and operations with regional naval forces and wider regional engagement to support and promote the UK’s interests in the area. Since her return from the Middle East

stop for Royal Navy vessels and we always look forward to visiting this welcoming island chain. The members of my crew who have called in before say there is something new to see every time.” The visit also gave the ship’s company the chance to stretch their legs and meet the locals – with HMS Edinburgh’s cricket team taking on the local Fire Brigade, giving the team a chance to show off their skills and produce a convincing victory for their inaugural game.

RN first-aiders on the seaboat – Petty Officer Rick Bonell and Leading Chef Felicity Liggins – stabilised the unwell skipper – a man in his 50s, and gave reassurance to the four passengers on board. HMS Mersey then put Lieutenant Paul Kilbride – the ship’s First Lieutenant – in Christy Ann to ‘drive’ the vessel to Rye Harbour. For 30 minutes Lt Kilbride closely followed HMS Mersey as she negotiated a safe passage to

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Lt Paul Lane, who helped coordinate the rescue from HMS Mersey’s bridge, said: “We were pleased to be able to help in this way. The fishing vessel was operating in an extremely busy part of the English Channel and we knew she would need help as soon as possible.

in August last year HMS St Albans has undertaken a number of tasks including a period of training off the coast of Plymouth and Scotland to prepare her for this deployment. Commanding Officer of HMS St Albans, Commander Tom Sharpe, said: “HMS St Albans has spent the last five months preparing for this deployment and is now ready to deliver. “Influence will be our key output; whether that is patrolling the high seas to reassure or escort, actively looking for acts of smuggling or piracy, training or exercising with other navies or engaging in diplomatic efforts from alongside.”

PORTSMOUTH MINEHUNTER IN ARABIAN GULF HMS Quorn has taken over duties from sister ship HMS Chiddingfold which is currently stationed in the Northern Arabian Gulf as part of the UK’s commitment to maintain a mine countermeasures presence in the region.

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the harbour.

As one of four minehunters based in the Gulf, HMS Quorn will operate for the next three years conducting maritime security operations and training with the UK’s regional partners and coalition nations. Her crew will change approximately every six months.

Quorn’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Phil Dennis, said following a demanding training programme over the last three months the ship’s 45 crew had been trained to a high standard in all aspects of mine countermeasures and maritime operations. “Following our successful training under the guidance of the Royal Navy’s Operational Sea Training staff, the crew of HMS Quorn is looking forward to the challenge of deploying to the Middle East and operating in the Arabian Gulf.”

RN PATROL VESSELS TAKE PART IN HUGE SQUADRON EXERCISE TEN of the Royal Navy’s P2000 patrol vessels took to the seas for one of the largest squadron exercises and manoeuvres in 25 years. The ships left Portsmouth Naval base in a tight formation and once in open water started a series of highly complex manoeuvres, sailing in tight groupings that require a significant amount of navigation and command skill - especially as there are so many vessels involved. The P2000 class of ships are unique to the RN in that they are manned by university students but are commanded by an RN officer, usually a lieutenant. Each of the 14

ROYAL NAVY NETS FRENCH FISHING TRAWLER A FRENCH fishing vessel discovered by a Royal Navy patrol ship to be overfishing hake and using irregular nets has been fined £13,600 in fines and costs. While patrolling along the West Coast, in an area known as the Trouser Leg, HMS Severn made a routine boarding of the Bara Brenn which was fishing in seas off Lands End. The boarding team – Gunnery officer Lieutenant Charles Frampton, Petty Officer Lee Edwards and Engineering Technician Richard Hallett – made a detailed inspection of the vessel’s logbook and the catch in her hold, quickly discovering a significant difference between the amount of hake

ships in the squadron is assigned to a university that has a Royal Naval Unit where the undergraduates can become part of the ship’s company for their time at university. As patrol vessels the P2000s sail around the UK and European waters protecting the integrity of UK waters while also teaching the students navigation skills, leadership, motivation and command attributes.

recorded and that which had been caught. Commanding Officer of HMS Severn, Lieutenant Commander Catherine Jordan said: “The detention of the fishing vessel was the result of a thorough and professional inspection conducted by the Royal Navy inspection team on board, coupled with good liaison with the Marine Management Headquarters.” So far in 2011, HMS Severn has conducted 231 boardings, of which 103 have resulted in the detection of infringements of EU or UK law.  In 2010 the ship had to detain seven fishing vessels into port for further investigation and this is her first to be detained in 2011.

NAVY’S NEW ICEBREAKER JOINS THE FLEET HMS Protector – the Royal Navy’s new ice patrol ship – has been formally commissioned into the fleet on the 50th anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty. The ship will help enforce the treaty which was put in place to ensure the Antarctic environment is fully protected from exploitation and gives priority to scientific research. Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology, Peter Luff, who was principal guest at the ceremony, said: “The commissioning of HMS Protector reaffirms our commitment to maintaining the Ice Patrol capability which demonstrates the UK’s commitment to helping preserve the Antarctic as a natural reserve. She will carry out important work supporting the hydrographic

and oceanographic work conducted in the region, which complements the international effort to continue to assess the impact of climate change.” The 5,000-tonne vessel has been leased from Norwegian company GC Rieber Shipping for three years while the future of HMS Endurance is being considered. Protector will undergo further sea trials over the next few months and will deploy on the Navy’s Antarctic task in November for seven months. HMS Protector’s Commanding Officer, Captain Peter Sparkes, said: “This is a landmark and very proud day for the ship’s company of HMS Protector and the Royal Navy. We have much to achieve in the coming months, but we will be ready in every respect to resume the UK’s sovereign presence in the British Antarctic and South Atlantic Territory during the 2011/12 austral summer.”

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Focus

HISTORIC DOCKYARD // HMS VICTORY UPDATE

Restoration Work Begins on Nelson’s Flagship VISITORS to HMS Victory, the oldest commissioned warship in the world, will have the chance to see how the great sailing warships of the 18th century were built and maintained at battle readiness. Nelson’s flagship is set to undergo her most extensive restoration since she was repaired after the damage she sustained at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Commanding Officer of HMS Victory Lt Cdr DJ ‘Oscar’ Whild RN said: “The removal of the masts during the summer months is an exciting time in the ship’s maintenance programme, this will give the visitors a great opportunity to see the ship in a very different light. “

The first major task is to dismantle the ship’s three masts, bowsprit and rigging which began in July. The last time HMS Victory was seen without her top masts was back in 1944, so this really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see HMS Victory under-going such extreme maintenance.

Jacquie Shaw, Head of Communications and Operations at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard adds: “Our visitors are always fascinated by the conservation of HMS Victory and we are keen to demonstrate that the work involved in looking after the most famous ship in the world is ongoing and vital.” 

John O’Sullivan, BAE Systems Project Manager for HMS Victory, is in charge of the maintenance: “We will remove the upper sections of all three masts and bowsprit, booms, yards and spars, including 26 miles of associated rigging and 768 wooden blocks, some of which are 100 years old. We will then catalogue and document everything for future surveying, design and replacement.” Alongside the ship - still the flagship of the Second Sea Lord – in dry dock in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the National Museum of the Royal Navy will soon open an innovative interactive exhibition. The Museum’s Director General, Professor Dominic Tweddle said: “We are delighted that the MOD has given the go ahead for the work on Victory. Preserving a wooden warship is a battle, a battle against nature and just as epic in its way as the Battle of Trafalgar. To be able to witness how that battle is fought will be a big draw to visitors”.

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Both Victory and the museum will remain open to the public throughout the restoration work.

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Focus

LOGISTICS CENTRE // GLOBAL NETWORK

LOGISTICS CENTRE HAS GLOBAL REACH “We have 30,000 customers worldwide, we hold a stock worth £694m and each year we handle up to 900,000 transactions. “That can be anything from a packet of washers costing pennies to a Deltic engine for a minehunter or a Raydome worth thousands.”

at the naval base and 90,000 M3 of storage space. “In 2007 the Llangennech operation was closed and transferred to Portsmouth and we now dispatch all Forms and Publications as well as Timbers and Metals,” he said.

LOGISTICS HAS GLOBAL REACH AS THE figures trip off the tongue of Head of Supply Chain - Logistics Alex Oram, it’s clear the operation he runs on Portsmouth Naval Base has a key role to play for all three services. The state of the art facilities mean an order can be placed by a customer thousands of miles away and the item can be dispatched that day. Alex explained: “We run a 24/7 operation here.

“When the customer goes into our system and places an order it comes through with a delivery date and the team will place it in priority order.

“It will be picked either by the automated system or manually and the relevant parts will be packed by us for dispatch either by a third party, ourselves or it will be put onto a flight. “Depending on the urgency we can send items all over the world in a matter of days.” A £30m investment in hi-tech warehousing equipment and technology by the MOD more than halved the time it took to process requests. “We have 10 acres of covered warehousing

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A staff of 264 is employed at the Logistics Centre and many have spent their whole working life fulfilling this vital role. “One of our Team Leader’s recently retired after 43-years working in the same store for the whole of his career. “And with earlier retirements this year they had given 117 years service between them,” he said. Looking to the future, Alex explained there were plans to expand the operation further. “We still have capacity and we are working closely with our client, Logistics ICG (MOD) progressing discussions with the Joint Supply Chain, to increase the level of activity. “With the demands put upon us from the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) we still want to grow the volume of activity and capacity, thereby securing the future of Defence Logistics in Portsmouth Naval Base” he said.

Did You Know? Logistics have been supporting the Royal Navy in the Naval Base since 1546 when it was administered by the Navy Board, of which Samuel Pepys was a member.

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Focus

TRANSFORMATION // PREPARATION

Trial With HMS Edinburgh Shows New Way Of Working A NEW approach to providing Fleet Time Support to the ships of the Royal Navy is being rolled out across Portsmouth Naval Base. The recent trial with HMS Edinburgh proved so successful that HMS Westminster is currently benefiting from the lessons learned and other ships will follow. Head of Fleet Time Engineering, Commander Matt Bolton Royal Navy (who is in a placement with BAE Systems), explained the trial had given him and his team the chance to re-write the rule book on how such work should be managed. “We needed to design a new process for delivery. “Fleet Time Support Periods (FTSPs) are short and dynamic and because we only refreshed the schedule weekly, no individual had a clear and consistent understanding of the delivery plan from one day to the next. “In addition managers spent a lot of time resolving problems rather than being able to focus on their core role,” he said. Having identified the issues, a new way of working was established with the help of Kristian Hardy, an Xchanging consultant, which saw the creation of a project delivery centre where the progress of the work could be seen at a glance. “We knew we had to make it very visual so you could see at a glance where we were. Initially we had all the information on paper but now we have screens displaying up to date information in a way that everyone can

understand,” said Cdr Bolton. From discussions with the Royal Navy, it became clear the biggest frustration was the inability of the team to do work on time because of unforeseen setbacks such as tools or spares not being available. Work orders were often issued when it was impossible for work to go ahead because all the necessary elements were not in place. “We therefore needed to ensure that work orders would not be issued without a high degree of confidence that they could be executed, this is what we call the green work order concept.

And the new approach certainly paid off with work starting on HMS Edinburgh promptly on day one of the FTSP and progressing to schedule throughout the period. “It’s unusual to get feedback from the ship but we received a communication showing the Commanding Officer was pleased with the outcome. “We see this very much as the first step and it will enable us to make improvements going forward. “During the time of the trial we moved from paper based to electronic and that was quite significant.

“In order to manage the green work order concept, we set up the project delivery centre which housed the integrated delivery team.

“Going forward we intend to run more than one project at a time using this approach,” he said.

“In simple terms we were ensuring we had the right people, with the right tools in the right place at the right time.

“Before any work began we went and physically checked the items were in place.

HMS Edinburgh Commanding Officer, Commander Paul Russell said: “As Edinburgh deploys to the South Atlantic in a material state ready to conduct operations as required by CINCFLEET, it is without doubt that the quality of the support provided during a complex and challenging Fleet Time Support Period (FTSP), whilst trialing a new process concurrently, was a major factor in the success of the project.

“Only when we were happy we had the right materials, tools, work instructions, permits and people in place would a green work order be issued,” he said.

“Throughout the FTSP and the predeployment Support Maintenance Period, it was evident that a partnership ethos existed with a view to achieving a common goal.

The project schedule was refreshed every 24 hours so a clear and accurate delivery plan was always available.

“The workforce should be commended for their stirling efforts.”

“For example, in the past we would take it on faith that spares would be available and schedule work on that assumption – with the trial, all that changed.

Case Study Fleet Time Engineering (FTE) Project Manager Taff Francis, said: “The new way of working allowed me to get on with managing the project and demonstrate much improved schedule adherence. “In the past I might have been tied up chasing stores to get items necessary for the work to proceed but availability was checked well in advance of the start date. “There was a real Team Portsmouth ethos and commitment and we were able to complete a huge amount of work, allowing the ship to sail on time for her deployment in good shape.”

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Throughout the FTSP and the pre-deployment Support Maintenance Period, it was evident that a partnership ethos existed with a view to achieving a common goal.

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Feature Feature

HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH // CARRIER UPDATE // PROGRESS

Another Milestone for QE Class Carrier Progress Update

At A Glance Housing machinery spaces, stores, and switchboards, Lower Block 02 will weigh over 6,000 tonnes on completion, with over 8,500 metres of pipes and 260,000 metres of cable installed - the equivalent distance from Portsmouth to Bristol and back. Standing over 70 metres long and 18 metres tall, the block will house 85 cabins, sleeping over 500 junior crew members on board the HMS Queen Elizabeth.

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Build

Update

Construction of the first Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier took a significant step forward, as the final rings of the forward hull section came together for the first time at BAE Systems’ facility in Portsmouth Naval Base.  Two huge ring sections of Lower Block 02 were joined together in a 30 minute move involving 26 remote controlled hydraulic transporters. Workers carefully manoeuvred a 3,700 tonne slice of the block over 25 metres across the company’s production hall, where it was carefully lined up to join the rest of the hull. The hull block is made up of five rings in total, with the first rings joined in April, the latest move marks the end of the three month process. Steven Carroll, Queen Elizabeth Class Project Director at BAE Systems’ Surface Ships, said:

AERIAL MAST SIGNALS SUCCESS WHEN the highly skilled workforce based at the Multi-Function Workshop were given the design for a prototype aeriel mast for the QE Class carrier, they really were breaking new ground.

“Bringing together Lower Block 02 marks the beginning of an exciting stage in the block’s life. The team will now begin the task of connecting the pipes, cabling, ventilation and machinery which runs throughout the block, before she is transported to Rosyth in April next year. “As the block takes shape, the sheer size and scale of this engineering project becomes even more apparent.”

Taking the designs and making them a reality was just the sort of challenge the team relished and Project Manager John O’Sullivan explained it was an important project for them to complete. “We have never built a pole mast like this before – we literally went from the raw materials to the finished aerial mast and now it is being tested by BAE Systems on the Isle of Wight. “The simulator on the island is being tested to make sure it works – they are flying planes around it to ensure the signals can get through and there are no obstructions,” he said. In all it took about a year to complete the prototype and work is due to be started within the next few months on the version that will grace the carriers. “It’s been great to be involved in something that has never been done before. “They are now in the process of going through the design reviews and changing the final drawings ready for us to make a start in the next couple of months,” he said.

Factfile The mast weighs 6160kg. It is 19124 milimetres high. “The pole mast is hinged as it is the highest point of the ship – that way it can go under bridges,” added John. Image above: Aerial mast under construction Image left: Two sections of Lower Block 2 being joined together

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Heritage

HMNB PORTSMOUTH // BRICKWOOD FIELD GUN CREW

It’s about team work and discipline, commitment and courage – it’s all the Navy’s core values encompassed in one event

Brickwood Field Gun All Pulling Together At a Glance

THE Field Gun competition may be over for another year – but just what is involved in this fiercely contested Naval tradition? Shoreside Editor Kate Thompson went to find out. STANDING on the sidelines watching 18 beefy blokes going through the finely choreographed elements of the Field Gun exercise, it’s clear this is a challenge only the fittest could take on.

How many in a team? 18 How far is the course? 170 yards How heavy is the gun? 900lbs or 64 stone How heavy is the gun carriage? 365lbs How heavy are the wheels? 100lbs

The gun alone weighs 900lbs or 64 stone – so when two of the crew lift it between them to allow the wheels to come off, they are holding the equivalent of four men weighing 16 stone apiece. The gun carriage weighs a hefty 365lbs and the wheels are 100lbs a piece – from the start line to the finish it is 170 yards of adrenalin fueled exertion. The exercise calls for dedication, agility, quick-thinking and most of all an ability to work well as a team. Michael Norford, Field Gun Officer, said: “It’s about team work and discipline, commitment and courage – it’s all the Navy’s core values encompassed in one event.”

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The men start to train from Easter and give up their own time to practice with the other

team members. A former participant himself, Michael explained what was so special about taking part. “It was one of the best sports I ever had the pleasure of being involved in – I loved the team work and camaraderie you have to show,” he said. Like any sport there is a danger of getting injured. “The main injury is muscular tears or strains because of the excessive nature of the event,” he said. While the team’s hopes of a third consecutive victory at HMS Collingwood didn’t quite go to plan, they did produce a fastest time and their thoughts are now very firmly on 2012.

Diary Dates Date

Event

Information

22 Aug

New Captain of the Base Appointed

Capt Jeremy Rigby

31 Aug

HMS Dragon arrives in Portsmouth

14 Sep

Basin Run

Go to the Team Portsmouth intranet for more information

06 Oct

Chairman’s Awards Bronze Event

Boathouse No7 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Health Matters At Portsmouth Naval Base IN THE wake of the recent Health & Safety event held above the Galley Box @ Port Royal in July, Occupational Health Manager Yvette Dawson is planning a second event in September. “The aim of the event was to get health messages and information out there to a wider audience. “And the level of interest in stopping smoking was such that we are now planning to run a Smoke Stop course,” said Yvette. For the second event, which plans to ‘set up camp’ at various locations around the base, Yvette explained the Occupational Health Team would be focusing on keeping healthy in the Autumn and Winter months. “We will be advising people of the steps they can take to avoid things like flu and how to boost your immune system,” she said. There will be a particular emphasis on blood pressure and ‘knowing your numbers’. “High blood pressure may not give any symptoms but if it affects you, you will be at greater risk of ill health. We will be explaining to people what the reading means and giving advice about helping control blood pressure through diet and exercise,” she said. As well as physical health, mental health is just as important. The two are closely linked. “Ultimately our aim is to prevent work related health issues, and help people to keep healthy at work and at home, and all this adds to a better quality of life,” she said.

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Feature

SUPPORT CONTRACT // SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

The Naval Base is like a town within a city. There is so much going on from the various buildings to ships coming alongside – the Soft Service Team are committed to maintaining good service standards and getting on with the jobs that our customer should not even have to think about

LET THEM EAT CAKE ANYONE working in offices at Portsmouth Naval Base can’t help but have noticed the new broom sweeping through the corridors and work places. A new combined Soft Service contract began on April 18 2011 with ISS. While there were initial challenges, the new contract is settling down as many of the ISS staff complete training to use advanced equipment and techniques as well as get used to their new working environments in the 179 contracted buildings and various other areas. Their aim is to raise and maintain standards across the base and ISS have so far brought in new supervisors, quality checks, deep cleans, weeding programmes, customer focus training and employee incentives. What makes this five-year contract so notable is it covers not only Portsmouth Naval Base but also BAE Systems Shipbuilding South, Shipbuilding North and Filton. Kris Fitzjohn, Soft Services Manager, explained the intricacies of the contract and why it was so important.

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“It is the first time a soft service contract has been put together like this at Portsmouth and

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it took a year to sort out the details and get sign-off. “We had to get the buy-in from the customer and they had to understand what was involved and why we were doing it. “The visibility and effectiveness of the new soft service regime is being noticed by our various clients and we will not stop until we are sure we are achieving and meeting all our customers’ expectations,” she said. Kris’s role is to ensure everything from cleaning, waste removal, landscaping, plant hire and the Pay as You Dine contract run like clockwork. “It’s a £7.5m budget and all the soft service areas are very much in the spotlight”. “If something doesn’t get done everybody knows about and it can have a knock on effect for so many people in the base. “The Naval Base Commander often walks into the office to discuss what he’s noticed on his journey – it is a priority to meet my customer’s expectations and address issues swiftly whether they are fed back from the Commodore himself or Joe Bloggs out there on the base.

“I like to be able to say ‘we are already onto that Commodore Thompson’,” she said.Kris is now on full time secondment to the Joint Maritime Support Delivery Framework (MSDF) Project Team looking at solution development for Soft Services for now and the future contract that will replace the Warship Support Modernisation Initiative (WSMI)contract when it expires in 2013. “We are preparing ourselves and ensuring we are in a good position for the new contract,” she said. IT SEEMS staff in Victory Building have a craving for cake ... “The feedback from the customer was that they wanted more cake so when our catering provider Aramark went on to refresh the counter layout they included a good selection,” said Kris.

Feature

FORWARD SUPPORT UNIT // WORKING TOGETHER With Warrant Officer Mike Gowers at the helm of FSU02, the team spent their four months between operational tours providing full engineering support to Exercise Joint Warrior, as well as reacting to high profile defects in support of operations off the Libyan coastline.

Delivering Global Support – Today’s Forward Support Units ESSENTIAL engineering support for the Fleet’s minehunters is provided by Portsmouth’s two Forward Support Units (FSUs). In recent months, against a backdrop of increasingly high-tempo operational requirements, each 26-strong unit has faced considerable challenges in testing conditions. The two units (FSU01 and FSU02) divide their workload on a four-month rotation basis. One is in Bahrain to support the four minehunters based there, while the other is in the UK supporting operational exercises, other deployed units and to conduct their own professional training (as well as take some leave). FSU01 recently completed their four month tour in the searing Bahraini heat, providing

A nine-strong team from FSU02 and Superintendent Fleet Maintenance deployed at short notice to carry out an entire main engine change for HMS Brocklesby in just three days and in Limassol, Cyprus, another successful generator change was completed in a rapid 48 hours for HMS Ramsey. high levels of operational defect and maintenance support. Achievements included: •

Main engine changes

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Generator replacements

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GRP hull and structural repairs

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Solving crucial communications, weapons and sensor defects.

The team also delivered a total of 19-weeks of maintenance periods, all conducted during a period of civil unrest which saw reduced civilian contractor support in Bahrain.

Superintendent Fleet Maintenance, Captain Tim Chidley, said: “The experienced and dynamic teams both in Bahrain and Portsmouth have risen constantly to the challenges faced in delivering engineering support wherever duty calls. “As the two teams prepare for their next four month operational rotation, you can be sure that FSU stand ready to deliver engineering effect to the Royal Navy’s minehunters, wherever and whenever it is required around the world.”

Ably led by Warrant Officer Paul Day, the team’s unswerving “can-do” attitude ensured their continuing success and recognition from senior officers both in theatre and in the UK.

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Feature

WATERFRONT SUPPORT // PARTNERING AT WORK

Waterfront Team Keeping Everything Shipshape

PORTSMOUTH is one of the busiest harbours in the country with around 117,000 movements of craft ranging from warships and cross channel ferries to yachts and pleasure craft. It is the duty of the Queens Harbour Master (QHM) and his staff to ensure the safety of all vessels within Portsmouth Naval Base (PNB) or when moving in and around the Port of Portsmouth. However, the support of each and every vessel - ensuring they are provided with all they require on arrival, while they are alongside and when they depart – is the responsibility of the Waterfront Department. Planning and good communication are key to ensuring the waters in and around the harbour remain safe and the jetties, docks and berths are primed for action. BAE Systems Waterfront manager, David Pace explained: “There is an awful lot of planning that goes on behind the scenes and the cooperation between the Waterfront department and our MOD partners is crucial in that operation.

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“Every movement has to be agreed with the Deputy Queen’s Harbour Master and The Chief Admiralty Pilot and his team. They work

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in partnership with the Waterfront Rigging team. It is the Riggers section within the Waterfront Department who prepare the jetties for all arrivals within PNB. “Each element of the arrival and departure has to be planned to include care whilst each vessel is alongside. This is to ensure that any work required while they are here, can be carried out in as safe an environment as possible.” Each team has a critical role to play in the smooth running of the Waterfront – and here’s a brief guide to what they do. Operations Cell This is where all vessel movements in and around Portsmouth Naval Base are planned. They work closely with all the agencies required to make all vessel movements possible to include QHM Staff, Harbour control, Base services, Serco ltd (Tugs) and the Chief Admiralty Pilot. They also provide support for the Nuclear Operational Berth for all Nuclear Powered Warships visiting Portsmouth and the Associated British Port of Southampton. Riggers There are five Team Leaders and 32 riggers,

reporting to one manager. They prepare the jetty for arrivals, berthing and departures as well as providing support for ships moving from jetty to jetty or through the docks and locks. They also make up ropes, flight deck nets and other rigging paraphernalia, drawing on centuries old traditions. Docking Party There are 15 members of the docking party and two Dock Masters. They are responsible for docking down Naval and commercial ships, resting them on the blocks in a dry dock. They also provide support for brows and Infrastructure repairs and maintenance. Electrical Shore Connections There are 11 in the team plus one Team Leader working in shifts to provide main shore supplied electricity to the ships via umbilical cables. They also provide temporary electric lighting and other ancillary electrical supplies for portable tools and equipment. Mechanical Shore Connections The 10-strong team plus one Team Leader maintain the non-tidal basin levels and the pumping or flooding of Locks and docks. They also provide other mechanical services to berthed vessels such as water supplies,

sewerage and grey water removal and low or high pressure air as required. Base Clearance With 14 in the team plus one Team Leader, they are responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and orderliness of the jetties and docksides. Their duties include support for Royal Naval ceremonies, support for vessels undergoing repairs and taking the lead during Naval Base Commanders inspections. Lifting Services. There are 24 in the team providing the expertise for all heavy lift services and slinging support. They operate all the 19 dockside cranes, three all-terrain mobile cranes and one mobile tower crane. They also operate the forklift trucks, mechanical brows, industrial trailers and provide fuel support for plant equipment. Load Testing Facility The 13-strong load testing team are critical to the safe operation of the waterfront. They examine and test all lifting equipment/tackle for Royal Naval and commercial vessels including the testing and examination of ships anchor cables.

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My Job

BASE PEOPLE // ME & MY JOB

Me & My Job Sally Jones

Title: Deputy Head, Commercial Based: Victory Building

What does your job involve?

What is the best part about your job?

“The main contract I am in charge of is Warship Support Modernisatiion Initiative (WSMI) which covers everything from Fleet Time Engineering to cleaning and tidying the base - there are also smaller contracts for such things as pest control and oil spills. I have a Transformation role as well and as part of that I chair the Joint Operational Change Board.

“I like being in Portsmouth because the picture changes every time you look out of the window. I love the variety and the people.”

“I am also increasingly involved in the Maritime Support Delivery Framwork (MSDF) contract that will replace WSMI.” What was your career path? “I joined the MOD as an explosives scientist before completing an MBA some years later and moving into business planning and transformation work. “I did a NATO staff course in Rome and expected an overseas posting but they sent me to Portsmouth and I became Deputy Captain of the Base. “When I was starting out, two thirds of all scientists worked for the MOD and it was great to get my hands on some serious kit and blow things up. I worked with rockets and gun propellants – one of the best parts of my job was working with nitro-glycerin. “We did have some funny experiences – like the time a colleague literally blew the roof off the building we were in and on another occasion a Health and Safety inspector fainted when I set off an explosion.”

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What are the challenges? “Making sure when we switch to MSDF we have a contract that fits the needs of Portsmouth Naval Base while at the same time trying to manage with less resource. It’s about finding a balance. We have a good track record here of working with BAE Systems and taking the challenges on rather than shying away from them.” When you were growing up what did you want to be? “As a girl I read a book about Marie Curie and it made me want to be a chemist. As part of a sandwich course I did a placement in an explosives lab and decided it was the place for me.” What do you enjoy most about working at PNB? “Most of the time our experience is one of having things done to us but as a director I have the opportunity to shape and influence change.” What does the future hold? “With my work I’m not certain what the next step will be but away from the office I am a keen golfer playing off a 12 handicap – and I would love to get that down to a single figure.”

Me & My Job Lewis Mihell

Title: Mechanical Steam Heating Engineer Based: Operations & Maintenance Workshop Building 2/17 What does your job involve? “Day-to-day I respond to call outs and repairs so, for instance, if there is a steam leak I would be the person who sorts it out. “Of course the most important part of my work is the attention to Health & Safety. I have to complete a Take 5 Card for most of my jobs, this allows me a few minutes to stop and consider the risks and more importantly how to control and reduce them. Most of my work has to be done under a Permit to Work which is written by my colleagues Pressure Systems Authorised Persons Steve & Dave.” What was your career path? “I always wanted to do mechanical work ever since I did work experience as part of the Trident scheme. I have worked at Portsmouth Naval Base  for five years. I completed a four-year apprenticeship in 2.5 years and was even awarded Apprentice of the Year. I really enjoy working with the team and it has been great working with my boss Mick Huitson.” What is the best part about your job? “There is a lot to learn – I really enjoy working with steam and fault diagnostics is the best part of the job. You have to take a step back and go through all the possibilities of what is wrong. You start with the easiest solution and work your way through the problem – experience is key to solving it.”

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Interest

RECIPE // YOUR LETTERS // COMPETITION // NEXT ISSUE

Jack Snacks Method 1 Ensure the prawns have been thoroughly cleaned and de-veined. You can always get your local fishmonger to do this for you. Start by preparing the marinade. Squeeze the lime juice into a bowl and add the chopped chilli, honey, crushed lemon grass, soy sauce and grated ginger. Add the melted butter and put to one side.

Jack Snacks King Prawn and Chorizo Kebabs

2 Tip the prawns into a non-metallic dish and drizzle over the Marinade and leave to stand for twenty minutes, but preferably, if you have time, leave for a couple of hours to infuse. The prawns can be placed in the fridge. Do not worry if the butter sets, they will still skewer.

With Roasted Red Peppers, Courgette Ribbons and Vine Tomatoes. Preparation time: 30-40 minutes Cooking time: 8-10 minutes Serves 6 Ingredients (Kebabs) 30 large, raw jumbo prawns, peeled, deveined and cleaned Juice of 2 limes 2 tbsp clear honey Lemon grass – 2 sticks 4 tbsp soy sauce 1 oz of grated ginger 2 Fresh chillies, finely chopped 50g (2oz) Melted butter 6 Wooden skewers soaked in cold water 8oz Chorizo (diced into ½” pieces) 1 Small bunch of fresh coriander.

3 Thread the prawns onto the skewers along with the chorizo, brush generously with what glaze is left and put to one side.

Ingredients (Vegetable Salad) Variety of peppers, sweet and bell peppers would be best. Allow one pepper per person. 2 Courgettes Red or yellow vine tomatoes 1 bag of salad rocket 1 Bulb of garlic Rosemary (Small bunch)

4 Prepare the vegetables by firstly cutting the peppers into 8’s or 4’s depending on the size. Try and use an assortment of colours and varieties, as this will add to the appearance, flavour and overall texture. 5 Top and tale the courgettes and slice into thin ribbons. Keep the tomatoes whole. Add all the vegetables together in a dish and add a good dash of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

from the main stem and add. Leave to infuse for one hour. 8. When it comes to cooking, the vegetables will take slightly longer than the prawns, so place these on the BBQ first. Place the peppers skin side down and the garlic bulbs with the cloves touching the BBQ grill. Place the courgette ribbons and the tomatoes onto the griddle. Keep basting the vegetables with the oil marinade. Once they are charred and blistered, place the vegetables into an earthenware dish and place to one side to keep cool. Check the garlic bulbs. Keep turning them until the bulbs become soft. Once they are soft, just add them to the chargrilled vegetables. 9 For the last five minutes of cooking, place the kebabs onto the BBQ and continually baste with the butter marinade turn until the prawns are nice and pink. This will indicate they are cooked and ready to eat. Do not overcook as the prawns will become rubbery and inedible. 10 When you are ready to serve, add the rocket to the warmed vegetables and place the garlic bulbs on the side for your guests to pop the soft roasted garlic cloves out of their skins. Place the dishes in front of your guests and sprinkle with some finely chopped coriander. 11 Top tip……Ensure the beers are ice cold and enjoy. Recipe compiled by CPO Dave Bevington

7 Cut the garlic bulb in half, but make sure you cut it through the middle so the base and the tip are kept whole. When this garlic bulb is barbecued, the soft cloves will be easy to pop out. The taste and texture will be soft and remarkably sweet….so have faith. Add these to the vegetables and rip the rosemary sprigs

Let us Know What You Think …

Contact

We are keen to get feedback from you about the articles in Shoreside and welcome any input you may have.

Kate Thompson, Editor, Shoreside, Room 222, Naval Base HQ, Victory Building, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LS.

So if you would like to have your say, make a comment on this issue of Shoreside or you have a burning desire to feature in a future issue, we would love to hear from you. It couldn’t be easier for you to get in touch – just send an email, give me a ring or send a letter via the contact details.

Email: [email protected] Phone: 07968262805

Next Issue

More updates on the QE Class Carrier

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Unlocking the secrets of the deep – a profile of BAE Systems divers Policing the base – the role of the MOD Police Going underground – Shoreside reveals the secrets of the culverts, penstocks and dock pumps and much, much, more

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