Ægir-class

Summary

Description

The Ægir-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) comprises two ships utilized by the Icelandic Coast Guard (ICG), known for their participation in the latter two Cod Wars. These vessels are designed to perform a variety of maritime functions, including patrols, search and rescue operations, fishery inspections, general law enforcement, and counter-terrorism efforts, primarily within Iceland's exclusive economic zone and adjacent waters such as those near Greenland and Jan Mayen.

The Ægir-class OPVs were conceptualized based on the ICG's experiences with two previous vessels, ICGV Þór and Óðinn. The need for larger and more seaworthy ships was identified by Rear Admiral Pétur Sigurðsson, leading to the design of the Ægir-class with icebreaking capabilities. Two vessels make up this class: Ægir and Týr, similar in design but differing in size and speed. Ægir has a standard displacement of 1,146 tonnes, measures 69.8 meters in length, and can reach a maximum speed of 19 knots. Conversely, Týr is slightly larger with a standard displacement of 1,233 tonnes, extends 71.1 meters, and is faster at 20 knots. Both vessels are powered by two MAN diesel engines and possess a range of 9,000 nautical miles at an operational speed of 18 knots. They also feature a 20-ton bollard-pulling winch and are equipped with passive rolling tanks.

Armaments of the Ægir-class initially included a 57 mm Hotchkiss cannon, which was replaced in 1990 by the Bofors 40 mm/L60 autocannon, and then later by the Bofors L70 in the late 2000s. The ships are also outfitted with net cutters, a unique addition that saw use during the Cod Wars. Technology-wise, both ships come with Sperry surface search and navigational radar, and Týr specifically is equipped with hull-mounted sonar. The vessels support a helicopter deck and hangar, which were extended in 1997 to accommodate larger helicopters.

The first Ægir-class OPV, Ægir, was built by Aalborg Shipyard in Denmark and launched in 1967, entering service with the ICG in 1968. The second, Týr, launched in 1974 by Dannebrog Værft, joined the fleet in 1975. Through their careers, the vessels have undergone several upgrades and refits. Notably, cranes were installed in 1994, and major refits occurred between 1997 and 2006, which expanded their helicopter decks, added radomes, modernized bridges and living quarters, and installed in-flight refueling systems for the helicopters.

Technical specifications