The Royal Navy’s newest Astute-class attack submarine HMS Agamemnon sailed into her homeport for the first time 125 years to the day after the force’s first submarine was launched.
On October 2, 1901, HMS Holland 1, the first RN submarine was launched from Yacht Shed No 1 at the Vickers Maxim shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness.
So having set sailed from BAE Systems in Barrow on September 25, it was fitting that the force’s most modern submarine sailed into her new home at HMNB Clyde for the first time exactly a century-and-a-quarter later.
Director Submarines Rear Admiral Andy Perks said: “The arrival of HMS Agamemnon at HM Naval Base Clyde is a significant milestone for the Royal Navy.
“Her delivery reflects the dedication, skill and collaboration of thousands of people across our Defence Nuclear Enterprise, who have worked together to build one of the world’s most capable attack submarines and deliver a formidable warfighting capability for the United Kingdom.
“As she begins a demanding programme of sea trials and operational preparation, I am delighted to welcome the submarine and her Ship’s Company to their new home on the Clyde, and I look forward to seeing them join the operational fleet in due course.”
Her new Commanding Officer Commander John Gabb, added: “It is an enormous privilege to be the first person to command this vessel at sea.”
En route to HMNB Clyde the boat carried out her first dive at sea, submerging beneath the waves as she transited the Inner Hebrides Exercise Areas.
Cdr Gabb said: “The first dive for any submarine is a significant achievement in its generation. While this time we were being supported by a Merlin helicopter, it will not be long before we are conducting realistic pre-operational training using the same aircraft to simulate the enemy.
“Next time we will be pushing the crew and the submarine to its maximum potential to operate undetected.”
- You can read more details on the Royal Navy website
