by Alan Watkins
awatkins@thekmgroup.co.uk

TWO of the modern fleet of warships will be sailing up the Medway for Armed Forces Day.
They are HMS Argyll, which will be moored in Number Two basin for the weekend, and HMS Cattistock, which will moor off Thunderbolt Pier.
HMS Argyll is a Type 23 Frigate launched in 1989. She is capable of operating anywhere in the world, and like her sisters has become the mainstay of the modern surface fleet.
The ship was designed for anti-submarine warfare, but the type has evolved . They have the ability to conduct a range of tasks including embargo operations using boarding teams inserted from the ship’s boats or helicopter, disaster relief work and surveillance operations.
HMS Cattistock was commissioned into the Royal Navy 17 years ago this month. Her main duties are to counter the threat of sea mines.
The hull and most of the superstructure are constructed from GRP that is both non-magnetic and able to withstand the shock of exploding mines.

Entry to the Historic Dockyard will be free to everyone for the June 27 event – as long as they have a ticket.
These are available on a first come first served basis but you have to apply and can use the form on this page or from the Historic Dockyard, tourist information centres, Medway Council contacts points or at www.thedockyard.co.uk
Applications must be received by Friday, June 12.