HMNZS Charles Upham sold

Defence Minister Mark Burton confirmed today that the transport ship Charles Upham has been sold to a Spanish shipping company for $8.6 million.

The vessel was purchased in 1994 for $14 million.

Another $7 million was spent on modifications and the vessel was commissioned into the Royal New Zealand Navy as the HMNZS Charles Upham in October 1995.

The ship has never carried out the sealift role for which it was originally bought.

In sea trials during 1996, the ship broke down in heavy weather and rolled. As a result it was tied up awaiting a decision on its future.

Mr Burton said the $35 to 40 million needed to modify the vessel was not considered to be a "prudent or responsible use of defence resources."

In May the Government announced the vessel would sold as part of a package of defence changes.