| | Echo Class Multi-Role Hydrographic and Oceanographic Survey Vessels |
 | | With construction of Echo and Enterprise well underway, the remaining units of the Hydrographic Surveying Squadron (HSS) were rapidly withdrawn from service: HMS Herald was decommissioned on May 31st 2001, followed by HMS Bulldog on July 26th 2001 and finally by HMS Beagle on February 7th 2002. |
 | | Meanwhile a survey was undertaken to examine whether the Royal Navy requires a third Echo class survey vessel, or whether the two units currently under construction will be able to fulfil the current obligations of the four vessels leaving service. |
 | | For their survey role, the Echo Class will have core complement of 45, but when undertaking other roles, such as mine-counter measure support, accommodation exists for a further 35 personnel. |
| www.btinternet.com /~warship/Today/echo.htm (1710 words) |