The United Kingdom has officially transferred a former Royal Navy survey ship, HMS Enterprise, to the Bangladesh Navy, significantly enhancing the maritime security capabilities of the South Asian nation.
HMS Enterprise, which was commissioned in 2002, has now concluded its service life, being retired in 2023 after fulfilling its operational duties. As an Echo-class multi-purpose hydrographic survey vessel, the ship is designed to accommodate multiple sensors that enable comprehensive scanning of both surface and underwater domains. This capability is crucial in support of various military operations, including submarine missions, amphibious actions, and mine countermeasures.
The decision to transfer HMS Enterprise underscores the robust partnership between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh while emphasizing London’s ongoing commitment to fostering stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the northeastern segment of the Indian Ocean.
Sarah Cooke, the British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, expressed the significance of this transaction, highlighting the deep trust and strong cooperation that underpin bilateral relations. “The sale of this survey vessel reflects the deep trust and strong cooperation between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh,” she remarked. Cooke also noted that HMS Enterprise has served the Royal Navy with distinction and is set to commence a new chapter in support of Bangladesh’s maritime goals and a shared vision for a secure and prosperous Bay of Bengal.
HMS Enterprise is notable for its impressive specifications, measuring 91 meters (299 feet) in length and having a beam of 17 meters (56 feet). The ship is capable of accommodating up to 70 sailors and features space for the deployment of a survey motorboat. It is equipped with three diesel generators, allowing it to achieve a speed of 15 knots (17 miles/28 kilometers per hour) and offering a substantial operational range of 9,300 nautical miles (10,702 miles/17,224 kilometers).
In addition to its advanced sensing equipment, HMS Enterprise is armed with 20-millimeter cannons, heavy machine guns, and auxiliary weaponry, ensuring it maintains effective firepower during deployments. The transfer of this significant asset is poised to bolster the Bangladesh Navy’s operational readiness and capability, further solidifying the maritime security architecture in the region.
