[WIP] HM Royal Navy - 1:1 Scale Build - Sandown-
THE CLASS:
The Sandown-class minehunter is a class of specialist vessels operated by the Royal Navy designed for mine countermeasure (MCM) operations in coastal waters. Built with a glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) hull, the Sandown-class features a low magnetic and acoustic signature, minimizing the risk of detonating underwater mines during operations.
Each ship displaces around 600 tonnes, measures approximately 52.5 metres in length, and is powered by diesel-electric propulsion, providing a top speed of about 13 knots.
The Sandown-class is equipped with advanced mine detection and neutralisation systems, including the Sonar 2093 variable depth sonar for locating and classifying mines, and remote-controlled submersibles such as the Seafox mine disposal system for safe destruction of identified threats.
The vessels also carry a small crew of around 34 personnel, trained in mine warfare, diving, and navigation. In addition to minehunting, Sandown-class ships can perform patrol, survey, and route clearance duties, often supporting NATO and coalition maritime security operations.
First entering service in the late 1980s, the Sandown-class has seen continuous modernization, with some ships transferred to allied navies such as those of Estonia and Ukraine, underscoring their enduring effectiveness and adaptability in modern mine warfare.
HMS SHOREHAM:
HMS Shoreham (M101) is one of the Royal Navy’s Sandown-class minehunters, a class of specialist vessels designed for mine countermeasure (MCM) operations in littoral and coastal environments.
Commissioned in 1998, HMS Shoreham (M101) was the fifth ship of the Sandown class to enter service. Built by Vosper Thornycroft in Southampton, she exemplifies the class’s advanced design and technology aimed at detecting and neutralising sea mines to keep shipping lanes safe.
Constructed from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), Shoreham’s non-magnetic hull helps protect her from magnetic mines while also reducing maintenance needs. The ship displaces around 600 tonnes, measures 52.5 metres in length, and is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system that enables a maximum speed of around 13 knots and excellent manoeuvrability.
HMS Shoreham is equipped with the Thales Sonar 2093 variable depth sonar for mine detection and classification, and employs Seafox mine disposal vehicles—remotely operated submersibles capable of investigating and destroying mines with precision. The ship’s systems are designed to locate, identify, and neutralise both moored and ground mines, allowing safe passage for military and commercial vessels.
The vessel typically operates with a ship’s company of around 34 personnel, including specialists in mine warfare, diving, and engineering. Beyond minehunting, HMS Shoreham has participated in NATO maritime security operations, joint exercises, and Gulf deployments, supporting international efforts to maintain freedom of navigation.
After over two decades of distinguished service, HMS Shoreham was decommissioned in 2022, marking the gradual transition of the Royal Navy’s mine countermeasure capability toward more autonomous and modular systems. However, her legacy continues, as the vessel was later transferred to the Ukrainian Navy, where she is expected to contribute to mine clearance operations in the Black Sea region.
Update Log:
Update 1.0:
-Craft Uploaded
CREDITS:
30mm DS30m Mark2: Suspicious_Cat
