THE Royal Navy has launched its most “advanced hunter-killer” submarine, which will be based in Faslane.
HMS Agamemnon, which has been nicknamed “Awesome Aggie” by its commanding officer, is the sixth of seven Astute-class submarines.
The vessel entered the water for the first time at BAE Systems’ facility in Barrow on Thursday and will travel to the Clyde naval base, Faslane, once final tests have been carried out.
It is named after the Greek king who besieged Troy and will be tasked with protecting the UK’s nuclear deterrent and aircraft carrier task groups.
It will also carry out Royal Marine raids and will help gather intelligence.
The vessel is capable of engaging with threats on land through its Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Managing director of BAE Systems Submarines, Steven Timms, hailed the launch as a “hugely significant milestone”.
He said: “The design and build of a nuclear-powered submarine is incredibly complex and a truly national endeavour, and I pay tribute to the thousands of highly-skilled people who have helped get Agamemnon to this stage.
“Submarines are a vital component of the UK’s defence capabilities and we must now work collectively to ensure Agamemnon is ready to join her sister submarines in service with the Royal Navy as soon as possible.”
Agamemnon’s commanding officer commander, David Crosby added: “It is fantastic to finally get Awesome Aggie into the water in preparation for the final stages of build and commissioning of this extremely complex and highly capable submarine.”
