RFA Brambleleaf (A81)
RFA Brambleleaf (A81) was originally named Hudson Deep and was bareboat chartered by the RFA on the 20th of February 1980. In February of 1983 RFA Brambleleaf was purchased by the MOD(Navy) for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
... involved in the evacuation of British and foreign nationals from Aden ....
In November 1983 RFA Brambleleaf supported British troops in the multi-national force in the Lebanon.
In January of 1986 RFA Brambleleaf was involved in the evacuation of British and foreign nationals from Aden, following the civil war in the Peoples republic of Yemen.
As well as their primary role of replenishing warships at sea, fleet support tankers are used for the bulk movement of fuels between MOD(N) depots. The Brambleleaf has three Leaf Class sisters - RFA Orangeleaf, RFA Oakleaf and RFA Bayleaf. All four were originally designed as commercial tankers and underwent major conversions to bring them up to RFA standards and equip them for naval support. These involved adding a considerable amount of electronics, both in communications and navigational aids, fitting two replenishment rigs and increasing the amount of accommodation.
Reasons for the change to double hulled vessels can be found here.
RFA Brambleleaf ship details.
Length: 170.7 metres
Breadth: 25.9 metres
Draught: 11.6 metres
Displacement: 40,870 tonnes
Speed: 15 knots
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