Queen visit to HMS Astute results in Vice Admiral appointment for The Queen of England
HMS Astute Returns Home for Major Overhaul, Marking End of Record-Breaking First Commission
After a remarkable 15-year first commission, HMS Astute, the UK's first hunter-killer submarine of its class, has returned home to HM Naval Base Devonport for a significant overhaul. The record-breaking journey came to an end with a ceremony attended by Her Majesty The Queen.
During the ceremony, Vice Admiral Sir Ben Key was appointed as the new First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff. This appointment revives a title that dates back to the reign of Henry VIII. The announcement was made by Defence Secretary Ben Wallace at the same event.
The Queen, who is also the Sponsor of the UK's flagship aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and serves as Commodore-in-Chief of both the Royal Navy Medical Service and the Naval Chaplaincy Services, inspected a Guard of Honour of submariners and took part in a ceremonial lowering of the Ensign and Union Flag.
HMS Astute, the first of the Astute-class submarines, had the honour of hosting Her Majesty onboard during the visit. Rear Admiral Andy Perks, Head of the Submarine Service, presented her with a burgee in recognition of her ongoing support for the Royal Navy.
Meanwhile, HMS Triumph, the last of the Trafalgar-class submarines, arrived at HMNB Devonport for decommissioning. The vessel, symbolising British maritime strength and innovation, will undergo the decommissioning process as HMS Astute prepares for its Mid Life Re-Validation Period (MLRP).
The MLRP, led by Babcock International and supported by the Ministry of Defence, will ensure that HMS Astute remains at the forefront of naval technology for years to come. The submarine's extended service is a testament to the dedication and skill of its crew and the commitment of the Royal Navy to maintaining a strong and modern fleet.
The visit and the appointments mark significant milestones in the history of the Royal Navy, underscoring the commitment to maintaining the UK's maritime strength and upholding the proud tradition of naval service. The new First Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Sir Ben Key, will lead the Navy into a new era, building upon the successes of the past and looking towards the challenges of the future.
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