December 11, 2007: The British Royal Navy is refurbishing some of its Type 23 Frigates. As built, each 4,900-ton ship was equipped with eight Harpoon anti-ship missiles, a 114mm main gun, 30mm close range guns, torpedo tubes, and the Sea Wolf anti-missile system. Electronics included radars, and a sonar for hunting submarines. The ships have a crew of 180. They can also carry a medium-sized helicopter.

The $70 million refurb effort will include the installation of improved sonar and Seawolf anti-aircraft systems. A new gun will be installed, providing more range (out to 27 kilometers). There will also be many improvements to the ship structure, including a different shape on the stern (rear) of the ship, that will improve fuel efficiency.