L.É. Orla P 41
L.É. ORLA was formerly the HMS SWIFT a British Royal Navy patrol vessel stationed in the waters of Hong Kong. She was purchased by the Irish State in 1988. The primary armament is a 76mm OTO MELARA compact gun and RADAMEC electro optical fire control system. L.É. ORLA is a high speed vessel, designed to move rapidly about the patrol area and to bring her considerable firepower to bear when necessary.
She scored a notable operational success in 1993 when she conducted the biggest drug seizure in the history of the state at the time, with her interception and boarding at sea of the 65ft ketch, Brime.
Ships Name
Orla was a very popular name in the 12th century all over Ireland. The names means ‘Sovereignty’ or ‘Golden Princess’ A sister of Brian Boru was named Orla as was his niece. Legend has it that Brian’s niece, Princess Orla, whose beauty was legendary, was beheaded for her indiscretion.
| Ships Characteristics |
| Type | Coastal Patrol Vessel |
| Length | 62.6m |
| Beam | 10m |
| Draught | 2.7m |
| Main Engines | 2 X Crossley SEMT- Pielstick Diesels 14,400 HP 2 Shafts |
| Speed | 25 + Knots |
| Range | 2500 Nautical Miles @ 17 knots |
| Crew | 39 (5 Officers) |
| Weaponry on Board |
| Main Armament | 76mm OTO Melara Canon Radamec Fire Control System |
| Secondary Armament | 2 X 20mm Rheinmetall Rh202 Canon
2 X 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun |
| Small Arms | 9mm Pistol to 7.62mm General Purpose Machine Gun |
