RFA Lyme Bay supports mine countermeasures with ship-mounted Rubb structure

RFA Lyme Bay has deployed to the Middle East as part of a multinational task group operating in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz, supporting efforts to maintain safe passage for commercial shipping.

Repurposed as a Mine Countermeasures (MCM) mothership, the vessel is now equipped to deploy a range of advanced autonomous and remotely operated systems, alongside Royal Navy mine warfare specialists, divers, and engineers.

Sailing in company with German vessels FGS Mosel and FGS Fulda, and under the protection of HMS Dragon, the ship is supporting a coordinated international effort in a region where maritime security remains a critical concern.

A proven platform at sea

Operating in challenging conditions requires adaptable, space-efficient solutions. While space onboard any vessel is limited, RFA Lyme Bay has benefited from a ship-mounted Rubb structure since 2015, providing protected space for operations and storage.

The 15m span, 18m long NV structure was designed specifically for maritime deployment, enabling crews to carry out maintenance, store mission-critical equipment, and support operational planning in a controlled environment.

Over the past decade, the structure has supported deployments across a wide range of missions, from humanitarian deployments to high-readiness military operations.

Built for demanding environments

Engineered to withstand harsh marine conditions, the structure combines robust steelwork with durable fabric cladding to deliver a reliable, weather-resistant solution at sea. Key features include:

• Galvanised lattice steel framework with modular construction
• PVC-coated fabric cladding for strength and weather protection
• Integrated wind bracing for stability in exposed environments
• Roller shutter and access doors for safe, practical use
• Steel foundation ring beam for secure installation

This combination allows the space to be rapidly reconfigured to meet changing operational requirements, whether supporting equipment handling, maintenance activities, or mission planning.

A decade of performance

Nearly ten years on from its installation, the Rubb structure continues to deliver reliable performance at sea. Regular maintenance has played a key role in sustaining this. Following its return to the Tyne in 2025, Rubb supported refurbishment works to ensure the structure remains fully operational in demanding maritime conditions.

Its longevity and adaptability underline the value of modular, engineered fabric solutions in defence and marine applications; providing a dependable, reconfigurable space wherever it is required.