The DDS' 2 Nightingale 88A hospital ships perform a vital humanitarian and support role for the DDS and are amongst the hardest working ships in the fleet, typically in use over 90% of the year. Now after 6-7 years hammering the 2 ships are in urgent need of an upgrade and refurbishment.
Both ships will receive a full maintenance check and replacement of worn structural components. They will receive new HS-740B engines and improved communication systems. Internal security and monitoring will also be improved. Hospital and casualty receiving facilities will also be upgraded. While each ship is unavailable one of the 2 Tethys Ocean 65As will stand in as the reserve hospital ship, the ships being primary casualty receiving ships and having extensive medical services. Each Nightingale upgrade is expected to take 4-6 weeks and both will be completed by the end of the year.
