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Navy’s model behaviour
By LCDR Steve McCracken
Volume 50, No. 11, June 28, 2007 |
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| TESTING TIMES: Centurion and a small tug boat friend being put through their paces. |
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On May 4, Centurion, the Navy sponsored 1/16 Scale FFH model was “launched” onboard HMAS Ballarat (CMDR M.K.M. Wise) during an official reception hosted by the Fleet Commander RADM Davyd Thomas.
The name Centurion continues the traditional ancient Greek theme followed by Port Ash in naming their models. The first two being Mentor and Triton.
The reception drew together maritime industry representatives from across Australia and maritime simulation experts from Australia and Asia. The scale FFH will be available for ship handling training at Port Ash from early July and is a significant contribution to Maritime Training in Australia.
The model was conceived in 2002 and funded by Systems Command in a partnership with Port Ash.
Built near Newcastle she is 7m long and weighs approximately 1000kg.
She has had “sea trials” at Port Ash with software development being critical to the accurate simulation of the FFH.
A quick test drive for the Navy in late May showed the model to have very similar handling characteristics to the Anzac Class and once fully operational she will provide invaluable ship handling training to the Navy.
In her design Centurion can be fitted with any combination of three rudders and propellers.
With a variety of software options to control engine power this will allow the model to simulate a number of vessels including the Air Warfare Destroyer once the propulsion configuration is known.
Of note she is affected substantially by the wind and like the FFH design is sluggish at slow speeds.
During berthing and departures Centurion was responsive to generous engine movements with twin screws providing good control of the stern. Tug handling under the flare of the bow also proved true to life.
With every new class of ship comes teething problems. Centurion is no different.
The similarities between Centurion and the FFH she is designed from suggests that the Navy will benefit significantly from realistic ship handling training in the years ahead. |
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