The completion of the sixth of seven planned state of the art attack submarines is a major landmark (Image: SWNS)
latest Astute-class attack submarine, HMS Agamemnon, was launched today at shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria.
The submarine, named after the ancient Greek king, is the sixth of seven submarines to be produced by the company.
Weighing just over 7,400 tonnes and measuring 97 metres in length, the impressive capability will now enter a period of rigorous testing as it begins a lengthy commissioning process prior to sea trials and entering service.
Commander David ‘Bing’ Crosby, Agamemnon’s Commanding Officer said: “There is still plenty to do until we get to exit Agamemnon from Barrow, but the entire workforce should be full of pride for what they have achieved with this build so far.
“I am looking forward to working with our friends at BAE Systems, the Submarine Delivery Agency, and the wider Defence Nuclear Enterprise to get Agamemnon through these final tests.”
The state of the art submarine is one of the world’s most advanced (Image: SWNS)
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Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems Submarines said: “This is a hugely significant milestone for everyone at BAE Systems, the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, and the Royal Navy.
“The design and build of a nuclear-powered submarine is incredibly complex and a truly national endeavour.”
The submarine is the latest in a class of submarines that are the most technologically advanced the Royal Navy has ever had.
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Its state of the art weaponry and technology will be critical to British defence (Image: SWNS)
It will carry a wide range of modern weaponry including Tomahawk missiles with a range of 1,000 miles as well as state of the art detection and navigation equipment.
BAE System’s Barrow site has become crucial to the Ministry of Defence’s ability to design and build advanced nuclear-powered submarines.
In addition to working on the seventh and final Astute submarine, the site will also play a fundamental role in developing submarines for Australia as part of the and increase intelligence sharing and cooperation with US and Australian partners.