President William Ruto on Saturday, July 29, inaugurated the Kenya Navy KNS Shupavu ship, which underwent a midlife refit by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) at the Mombasa Shipyard.
The refurbishment project commenced in December 2021, shortly after the Mombasa yard was officially opened by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Throughout the rebuilding process, KDF officers and technicians worked on replacing the ship's engine, electrical systems, generators, navigational equipment, and other essential onboard systems.
"The KNS Shupavu was given a fresh coat of paint, and the living quarters were renovated to improve the crew’s comfort. The refit was a significant undertaking that required expertise, collaboration, and dedication" Kenya Shipyard announced.
Upon the successful launch, the ship will be utilised by the Kenya Navy for sea surveillance purposes.
This is the first time Kenya has undertaken a warship refit within its own borders. Previously, the country had to transport its ships overseas for maintenance, incurring substantial expenses. However, this time, the Kenyan Defense Forces (KDF) saved Ksh600 million through the local refit process.
The KNS Shupavu, inducted into service in 1996, has been a dedicated asset for the Navy. It features a bridge where the captain steers the ship and a machine control room where operators closely monitor the warship's performance.
Onboard the KNS Shupavu, essential infrastructure includes; the main galley, which has a kitchen to prepare food for the crew.
Another crucial area is the main engine room, responsible for powering and propelling the warship.
"The Engine Control Room (ECR) is located at the aft and on the main deck level of the ship. It houses the main switchboard and the ship’s service switchboard for control and distribution of the electrical power made and used onboard a ship," the Shipyard added.
KNS Shupavu also has a weather dock at the top where a crane is installed.
The primary purpose of the crane is to lift boats. The ship also has two boats stationed on the deck. These boats play a vital role in supporting navy officers during various operations and missions.
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