The sixth of the Royal Navy’s Astute-class hunter-killer submarines has been formally named.
HMS Agamemnon was unveiled at BAE Systems’ yard in Barrow-in-Furness yesterday to VIPs and those who have worked on her since 2013.
Nearly 11 years after the first steel was cut on the 7,000-tonne submarine, Lady Sedwill addressed the crew and then smashed a bottle of locally brewed-beer – in keeping with the yard’s tradition – to bless Agamemnon and all who will serve aboard for the next 25-plus years.
“As ship’s sponsor I am exceptionally honoured to be here to name the latest HMS Agamemnon. I thank all who have made this day possible and those involved in the build of this incredible submarine,” she said.
“In the near future she will join her sisters at His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde where I am certain she will go on to great operational success.”
For Commander David ‘Bing’ Crosby, there was a sense of déjà vu about proceedings, as he helped bring the fifth Astute-class submarine, HMS Anson, into service.
“It is a fantastic honour to be entrusted as the first commanding officer of the sixth Astute and the sixth HMS Agamemnon,” he said.
“It is especially nice to be able to share this day with our enterprise partners, our affiliates, friends and families; after all they too will play a key part in delivery of this submarine into service and beyond.”
The submarine is the sixth Agamemnon to fly the White Ensign, tracing a history back to 1781.
The first ship to bear the name was captained by Horatio Nelson – it was where he earned his spurs as a leader and she became his favourite vessel thanks to her stealth, power and capabilities.
Commander Crosby added: “The naming ceremony of our HMS Agamemnon is a significant milestone in her build and final preparation for launch.
“It is a very special day for me, my current ship’s company and those previous Aggies that have moved on to new challenges.
“We’re looking forward to getting ‘Awesome Aggie’ ready to join her sisters in the Royal Navy fleet.”
Over the coming months, work will continue on Agamemnon ahead of her being rolled out of the dock hall and carefully lowered into the neighbouring basin for the first time.
That will be followed by a period of tests and commissioning of systems alongside, before her maiden dive in the basin followed by departure from Barrow for sea trials and joining the rest of the Astute class at Faslane.
James Cartlidge, Minister for Defence Procurement, added: “HMS Agamemnon will play a vital role in defence of the nation, providing our Armed Forces with a competitive edge for decades to come.
“The Astute Class programme continues to support tens of thousands of jobs, with these submarines being a leading example of our commitment to investing in British sovereign capabilities.”
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