Reviews & Ratings for the Naval-Auxiliary-A135

The RFA 'Argus' has found itself immobilized at the Portsmouth naval base due to a failure to comply with essential safety regulations. This British amphibious ship arrived at the naval facility on June 8, 2025, and has been prohibited from departing until several noted deficiencies are addressed. The vessel's safety certification was revoked following a thorough inspection conducted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, alongside assessments from Lloyd’s surveyors. Consequently, the 'Argus' remains unable to set sail for necessary repairs in Falmouth, Cornwall, highlighting the critical importance of adhering to maritime safety standards.

On November 17, 2017, a British yachtsman received crucial assistance from Royal Navy flight crews while facing treacherous seas in the Bay of Biscay. The incident unfolded when the yacht 'Takita' encountered a violent storm while navigating the waters between the Azores and Britain, leading to the loss of its mast. Responding to a distress call, Wildcat helicopters from the 825 Naval Air Squadron took to the skies, searching for the 30-foot vessel amid strong winds off the French coastline. After three attempts to locate the yacht, the crew successfully identified 'Takita', which, despite having lost its radio transmitter, remained afloat and seaworthy. The courageous yachtsman was able to maneuver alongside the RFA 'Argus', where the dedicated crew provided him with essential jerrycans filled with fuel. This vital supply enabled the stranded sailor to continue his journey, ultimately reaching Brest, France, for necessary repairs. For more details and images of the rescue, visit: http://www.theargus.co.uk/news/national/15669778.Navy_helicopters_come_to_solo_yachtsman___s_rescue_in_rough_seas_off_France/

On September 17, 2016, Falmouth Docks witnessed a fire incident at approximately 10:20 AM involving the vessel 'Argus.' Emergency services promptly dispatched three fire engines to the site, leading to the immediate evacuation of A&P staff, who waited safely outside while the vessel was undergoing repairs in the dry dock. Fire alarms were deactivated upon the arrival of the fire crews. Notably, one of the fire engines deployed to combat the incident originated from Truro Fire Station. By the time firefighters arrived, the blaze had already been extinguished. Thermal imaging cameras were utilized to thoroughly inspect the area for any lingering hot spots. For detailed coverage, refer to the report with photos here: http://www.westbriton.co.uk/fire-at-falmouth-docks/story-29725029-detail/story.html#4KBSof5Kpz0wl2ii.99

In response to the escalating Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the UK Ministry of Defence is stepping up its operations with the deployment of troops, advanced equipment, and the RFA Argus medical ship. The World Health Organization has issued alarming forecasts, suggesting that the outbreak could potentially infect 10,000 additional individuals each week. As part of its commitment, the MOD is set to send the RFA Argus to West Africa, where it will function as an offshore command center for medical personnel establishing an Ebola treatment unit in Kerry Town, Sierra Leone. The RFA Argus, designated as a Primary Casualty Receiving Ship (PCRS), boasts modern medical facilities to support the mission. The ship will be outfitted with hospital beds, alongside a contingent of troops and army medics. Additionally, it will carry three Merlin helicopters to ensure swift transportation of essential staff and equipment to critical locations. Although the RFA Argus is capable of performing many hospital ship functions, it is not classified as such under Geneva Convention guidelines, meaning it does not carry the International Red Cross insignia. Belonging to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the ship operates with a civilian crew. The mobilization of the Argus, as well as accompanying troops and helicopters, is part of the UK's Operation Gritrock initiative, aiming to assist nearly 8,800 Ebola patients over a six-month span. Furthermore, the UK government has pledged to provide at least 700 new beds within Ebola treatment centers throughout the region. It is important to note, per BBC reports, that the Argus will primarily be utilized for transporting supplies and critical personnel, rather than treating Ebola patients directly.