RFA Argus docks for major refit

The vessel's hospital facility includes four operating theatre tables

One of the Royal Navy's aviation support ships has arrived in Cornwall to undergo a major refit.

The work on Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Argus will be carried out by A&P Falmouth and is expected to take almost a year to complete.

The refit contract is a substantial boost for the docks' business plan.

Included in the work programme will be improving the safety aspects of carrying medical patients on the 28,000 tonne vessel.

A new bridge front and wings will be built, as well as a complete refurbishment of the crew's accommodation.

CT scanner

RFA Argus is an aviation support ship, but is also classed as a Primary Casualty Receiving Facility (PCRF).

When operating in a PCRF role, its crew includes doctors, nurses, medical assistants and Royal Marine bandsmen who act as stretcher bearers and casualty handlers.

The ship's hospital facility has four operating theatre tables, 10 intensive care beds, 20 high dependency beds and 70 general ward beds.

RFA Argus is also one of the only ships in the world to have a CT scanner.

The ship had a major weapons and communications system overhaul two years ago.