The storied Maillé-Brézé, last of the French Navy’s escort ships, is currently undergoing an extensive maintenance procedure in the dry dock at Nantes Saint-Nazaire. This operation marks a significant chapter in the vessel’s maintenance history and continues to highlight its role as a celebrated maritime museum.
The Dry Dock Maneuver: A Detailed Operation
The arrival of Maillé-Brézé at Nantes Saint-Nazaire was initially met with a slight delay, docking on April 12. By May 15, after meticulous maneuvering, the vessel was securely positioned in the dry dock. The task involved moving the ship to the center of the dock with utter precision, followed by stabilizing it using wooden supports known as accores. This meticulous operation established the foundation for the maintenance procedures scheduled to last several weeks.
A Historic Journey: From Service to Museum
Maillé-Brézé’s journey is rich with history. Constructed in Lorient as part of the T47-class of squadron escorts, it served France’s naval forces from 1957 to 1988. Following its decommissioning, the vessel found a new lease of life as a floating museum, managed by the association Nantes Marine Tradition. The Maillé-Brézé retains the equipment and layout acquired during its 1967-68 conversion to an anti-submarine warfare ship. This transformation underscores its pivotal role in military history.
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 132.6 meters |
| Width | 12.7 meters |
| Displacement | Over 3,700 tons |
| Crew | 270 sailors |
| Max Speed | 32 knots |
Power and Armament: Naval Prowess
| Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Propulsion | Four oil-fired boilers and two gear turbines generating 63,000 hp |
| Radars | DRBV-22A and DRBV-50 |
| Sonars | DUBV-23 hull and DUBV-43 towed systems |
| Armament | 100 mm turrets, 20 mm guns, Malafon missile system, 375 mm ASW rocket launchers, 550 mm torpedo tubes |
Latest Maritime Developments and News
Beyond Maillé-Brézé’s current updates, the maritime world buzzes with other notable news. Upcoming American aircraft carriers will carry the names of respected figures, Presidents Clinton and Bush. Meanwhile, historical vessels like Hermione and Belem face threats, calling attention to preservation efforts.
Exciting Developments on the Horizon
- The inaugural investment from the Prince Albert II Foundation into ocean sustainability is eagerly anticipated.
- Opportunities arise for those interested in becoming port officers, with registration now open.
- Satellite technology advances as Unseenlabs celebrates the successful launch of BRO-16.
- TOWT reveals names for its future sail cargo vessels, stirring curiosity in the maritime community.
- Leadership in maritime industries sees change as Alberto Maestrini steps in as the president of SEA Europe.
Maillé-Brézé continues to sail through history, not merely as a relic from the past, but as a testament to France’s naval legacy and technological achievements. This ongoing maintenance will ensure that it remains a jewel of naval heritage for years to come.
