New Irish-built naval vessel launched on Valentia Island
The Fionnghuala boasts electronics supplied by Tom Hand, marine electronics supplier from neighbouring Dingle, offering sophisticated navigation, and communication capabilities essential for both training and operational tasks. Picture: Valerie O'Sulliva0n
A new naval vessel, commissioned by the Irish Naval Service Reserve, has been launched on Valentia Island.
Built at FM Marine Services’ Valentia Island facility in Co Kerry, the Fionnghuala is engineered to enhance Ireland's maritime defense operations with its specialised features and multi-purpose capabilities.
It also marks the launch of the first vessel built in Ireland, for the Irish Navy, since the build and commission of the LÉ Eithne in 1984.
The Fionnghuala has an A-frame gantry to support dive operations and survey work, as well as a loading crane for efficient cargo handling. It also has twin gun mounts for security, a custom mast to house specialist communications equipment, and instrumentation.
“These features ensure that the Fionnghuala is a highly adaptable platform, capable of fulfilling multiple missions including multi-purpose training, surveillance, and support roles,” according to a statement.
Powered by twin Cummins QSC 8.3-litre 500-horsepower engines, the vessel is equipped with a Vetus 14 KVA generator supplied by South Shore Marine.
The Fionnghuala boasts electronics supplied by Tom Hand, marine electronics supplier from neighbouring Dingle, offering sophisticated navigation, and communication capabilities essential for both training and operational tasks.
Where possible, during the build and kit out of the vessel, FM Marine Services have used local Irish suppliers.
The launch of the Fionnghuala “represents a significant achievement” for FM Marine Services, a family run boat yard located on Valentia Island, said Fionan Murphy, managing director.
"This vessel has been designed to meet the diverse and evolving needs of the Irish Naval Service Reserve. We are proud of the work we have done, providing a bespoke service that allowed us to work flexibly with the Irish Naval Service Reserve to deliver a vessel that we hope will prove to be an invaluable asset for training and operational support for years to come," he said.
