Despite the hot weather, work continues as normal at the Elefsinos shipyards to complete the construction of TPC 7, the last of the ROUSSEN-class units to enter service with the Navy in two phases.
At the end of July, the engine propellers were installed, followed by the receipt and installation of the arming console of the Exocet surface-to-surface missiles, as well as the start of test operations on the electric engines and the main engines. In the next period, the receipt of the Exocets and their installation is expected, with the continuation of sea trials.
The amount of work required and the rate at which it is progressing, leads to the estimation that, if everything goes smoothly, the ship will be able to join the Fleet fully operational around next November, that is in 4 months.
However, as in the case of KARATHANASI (P 78), the same practice is expected to be followed, that is, by the middle of September, the flag-raising ceremony will also take place at TPK 7, which will be called VLACHAKOS (P 79). Afterwards, the ship will return to Elefsina where the final works and acceptance tests will be carried out, until it is fully operational in the Navy.
For these reasons, it is estimated that the recent 3-month extension given for the continuation of work at the Elefsinos shipyards with the same payment regime by the Navy, and which expires on September 30, will not be the last. It is expected to be followed by one more, the last one, until December 31, so as to coincide with the “accounting” end of the year.
Not taking into account possible decommissioning of ships, with the VLACHAKO (P 79) the strength of the High Speed Boat Command of the Fleet Headquarters will reach 19 ships. Of these, the 7 ROUSSEN-class TPCs and the 4 upgraded LASKOS-class are considered the most combat-worthy.
