The SAS Mendi is conducting trials, which will continue until 22 July 2004, in Eckenfordje (Germany). Several members of the Fleet are participating in the trials, assisted by members of the Institute for Maritime Technology.
On completion of the trials, the ship will commence a work-up under the supervision of R Adm (JG) Kamermann assisted by various members from the German Navy. The final inspection will take place on 10 August. The ship will then continue preparations for the delivery voyage to South Africa.
The SAS Mendi will depart from Kiel on 20 August, via the Kiel Canal, for Brest (France). The ship will be alongside Brest from 24 August until 27 August, when she will slip and proceed to the Spanish naval base at Rota. The
SAS Mendi will remain alongside Rota from 30 August to 2 September. Whilst alongside, courtesy calls will be conducted and the ship will also refuel and take on victuals. On 2 September the
SAS Mendi will set sail for the final leg of her delivery voyage to South Africa. Her expected arrival in Simon’s Town is 17 September.
The SAS Mendi will undergo a weapons and combat suite fit in Simon's Town, before she rejoins the Fleet as a fully-fledged warship in 2006.