A TYPE 23 frigate has sailed from Plymouth following an £11million refit by workers at Devonport dockyard.

HMS Westminster sailed from Plymouth last week following the eight-month refit undertaken by Babcock.

City dockyard workers carried out a range of work to her including revamping and upgrading her Seawolf point-defence missile system.

The system can now track an object the size of a cricket ball from 20 miles away, moving at twice the speed of sound, and then direct two missiles to destroy it.

Designed to combat the potential threat of faster, lower flying, more manoeuvrable missiles – as well as guard against future threats – this Seawolf update is due to be fitted to all Type 23 frigates.

HMS Westminster has also been fitted with a new command system controlling the weapons - the first of the Type 23 ships to receive this and the Seawolf missile system upgrade.

This new command system is being installed throughout the Royal Navy's frigates, helping maximise operational capability

HMS Westminster's Commanding Officer, Commander Tim Green, said: "I am immensely proud HMS Westminster successfully completed her ready for sea date inspection early and in such a strong material state.

"This achievement is testament to the hard work, commitment and strength of the Devonport partnership between Babcock Marine, Superintendent Fleet Maintenance and my ship's company.

"During this very busy 37-week upkeep period, significant improvements to the propulsion plant and weapons systems will ensure HMS Westminster returns to the fleet as the most capable frigate in the Royal Navy."

Other significant work included replacing the 10-tonne main wheel in one of the ship's propulsion gearboxes.

Living quarters have also been modernised.

Captain Ian Shipperley, superintendent fleet maintenance Devonport, said:

"The effective working relationship between Babcock and the Ministry of Defence as part of a waterfront partnering arrangement has resulted in key project milestones being consistently achieved ahead of schedule, which now places the project in good shape to return to the Fleet on time.

"HMS Westminster is also on target to be delivered within budget."