HMS Anson, the fifth Astute-class submarine, has departed BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, to begin the journey to His Majesty’s Naval Base (HMNB) Clyde.
Capable of defending the UK’s interests at home and overseas, HMS Anson will be armed with up to 38 Spearfish Heavyweight Torpedoes, and Block V Tomahawk land attack missiles, able to strike targets at a range of up to 1,000 miles.
Powered by a Rolls-Royce nuclear reactor, the boat will also be operational for 25 years without refuelling.
The Astute Class is the first nuclear-powered submarine class to be designed entirely in a three-dimensional, computer-aided environment – representing the cutting-edge and state-of-the-art nature of the UK’s military capabilities.
They are the most advanced boats ever operated by the Royal Navy, providing the capability needed to defend the UK and its allies’ interests at home and overseas.
HMS Anson was formally commissioned in a ceremony last year and is the eighth Navy vessel to bear the name, originally named after Admiral George Anson.
Upon arrival at HMNB Clyde, HMS Anson will undertake sea trials before joining HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, HMS Artful, and HMS Audacious in operational service with the Royal Navy.
UK Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, said:
“HMS Anson will play a vital role in defending the UK, providing a competitive edge for decades to come, and I am proud to see her make her journey up to her permanent home on the Clyde.”
“Supporting tens of thousands of jobs across the UK, our Astute-Class submarines are a leading example of our commitment to defence manufacturing, continuing to boost British industry for decades to come.”
