CALDAS (FM 52)
Posted: Sun Jan 04, 2009 4:30 pm
November 1980 the Colombian Navy ordered 4 new frigates by the Howaldtswerke, Kiel, Germany of the type FS 1500.
The depicted frigate on this stamp was laid down on 14 June 1981.
23 April 1982 launched under the name CALDAS. Three sisterships the ALMIRANTE PADILLA (FM 51), ANTIOQUIA (FM 53) and the INDEPENDIENTE (FM 54).
Displacement 1.500 standard, 2.100 full load. Dim. 99.1 x 11.3 x 3.7m. (draught).
Powered by four MTU diesel engines, geared to two shafts, 23.000 shp., speed 27 knots. Two propellers.
Radius by 14 knots, 5.000 mile.
Armament: 1 – 76mm OTO-Melara DP gun on the forship. 2 – Breda 40mm guns aft. 2 – 30mm Emerlec AA. 8 – MM 40 Exocet surface to surface rockets. 6 – 324mm torpedo tubes.
One helicopter MBB BO 105 CB.
Complement 94.
14 February 1984 commissioned.
1999 Reclassified as light frigates.
During modernization Mistral Sam system reported fitted. Helicopter deck lengthened by 2 meter to take Bell 412 helicopter.
2005 In service.
The tall ship on the stamp is the GLORIA.
Colombia 1985 20p sg 1729.
Source: Jane’s 2003/2004. Ships on stamps CD-Rom.