“Royal Reception: The Unveiling of the UK’s Latest Submarine”
His Majesty King Charles III has toured BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness to greet the nation’s latest assault submarine into the Royal Navy.
During the event, HMS Agamemnon – named after a legendary ancient Greek monarch – became the sixth of seven Astute class vessels set to be commissioned into operation.
The nuclear-powered craft, weighing 7,400 tonnes and measuring 97 metres in length, will now undergo her testing and commissioning program before departing Barrow for maritime trials.
Earlier on the same day, Defence Secretary, John Healey, initiated the cutting of the first steel to officially commence the construction of the final Dreadnought submarine, HMS King George VI, which BAE Systems is manufacturing in collaboration with the broader Defence Nuclear Enterprise to support the UK’s nuclear deterrent.
The Dreadnought submarines, anticipated to enter service in the early 2030s, will replace the Vanguard-class submarines, which currently provide the Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD) for the Royal Navy. This critical function underpins the nation’s security as the ultimate assurance and ensures at least one of the vessels is deployed in an undisclosed ocean location every minute of each day.
Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Submarines division, stated: “It is an honor to host these ceremonies at our shipyard. The steel cutting on the fourth Dreadnought submarine highlights the substantial advancements we’ve achieved on the program, while the sixth Astute class vessel, HMS Agamemnon, joins the extensive and illustrious list of Barrow-built ships commissioned into the Royal Navy.
“The lasting partnership between our Barrow shipyard and the Navy dates back to the Victorian era, and our role as the UK’s hub for submarine design and construction is something we take immense pride in.”
General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, remarked: “The commissioning of the sixth Astute class submarine, HMS Agamemnon, and the initiation of the fourth Dreadnought-class submarine, HMS King George VI, signify major milestones in the Royal Navy’s steadfast dedication to protecting our nation.
“I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the outstanding workforce at Barrow, whose commitment, expertise, and creativity continue to propel these essential programs forward, ensuring the Royal Navy stays at the forefront of global maritime defense.”
His Majesty also visited Barrow Town Hall to grant Royal Port status to the town in recognition of its 120-year legacy as the birthplace of UK submarine construction.
