Friday, 21 May 2010

French Naval Visit...

Yesterday, amidst the busyness of work, a fire drill and a doctor's appointment, I had the opportunity to go on a tour of the French naval ship, F789 Lieutenant de vaisseau Le Hénaff. She docked behind us earlier in the week and her naval crew were offering tours to any interested Africa Mercy crew members.

It was very interesting seeing the various parts of this ship, including the torpedo tubes, engine room, bridge and the main gun on the forward deck. Here are some photos from our tour of this small 1977-built corvette.

F789 docked just behind the AFM.

The ship has four torpedo tubes.

This is the small clinic for basic medical and dental procedures.

Engine Control Room on the ship.

The narrow corridors and low deckheads (ceilings) on a naval vessel.

Looking forward from F789.

The large 100-mm calibre gun - one of the biggest on French ships.

The gun is controlled with a special radar acquisition system and infra-red sight.

My friend Christina with Academy students on the rather cramped bridge.


Farewell Lieutenant de vaisseau Le Hénaff - safe sailings!

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