Royal Navy's most potent attack submarine launched
The Royal Navy's newest super-submarine, ASTUTE, was launched today by HRH Duchess of Cornwall at the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow, Cumbria. ASTUTE is the first nuclear submarine to be launched in the UK for almost a decade. She has been built in the UK using the latest and most advanced naval engineering techniques. Construction has been described as more complex than that of the space shuttle.
(PressZoom) - The Royal Navy's newest super-submarine, ASTUTE, was launched today by HRH Duchess of Cornwall at the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow, Cumbria.
ASTUTE is the first nuclear submarine to be launched in the UK for almost a decade. She has been built in the UK using the latest and most advanced naval engineering techniques. Construction has been described as more complex than that of the space shuttle.
Lord Drayson, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, said:
"I am delighted to be here to see the launch of ASTUTE. She is the first of a class of hugely impressive vessels which will give the Royal Navy the world class capability it needs to protect the UK and her interests across the globe in the 21st century.
"ASTUTE is a truly remarkable vessel, and her importance cannot be underestimated. I am pleased that through the Maritime Industrial Strategy we are working closely with British industry to ensure that we have affordable, viable, and vibrant submarine design and manufacture skills, both now and in the future."
The First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Jonathon Band, said: "The ASTUTE class submarines are immensely powerful vessels. They will form a key part of our future programme, giving the Royal Navy the versatility and technical excellence needed to operate successfully across the globe in decades to come. ASTUTE is a true multi-role platform submarine. I look forward to her entry into service, along with that of her sisters AMBUSH, ARTFUL, and now the fourth of the class, AUDACIOUS."
ASTUTE will be equipped with advanced cruise missiles and torpedoes which will provide her with more firepower than any previous British attack submarine. ASTUTE will enter service with the Royal Navy in 2009, and will be based in Scotland. She will be a key part of the UK's naval defence forces for the next 25 years.
[ENDS]
Notes to Editors
1. ASTUTE is far bigger and more potent than the current class of attack submarines. The super stealthy vessel is almost 100m long, weighing 7,400 tonnes. She will never need to be refuelled: her advanced on-board life support systems mean she can circumnavigate the globe without needing to surface.
2. ASTUTE is the first vessel of four in the Astute class. The other three are AMBUSH, ARTFUL and AUDACIOUS.
3. In keeping with naval tradition, ASTUTE will become HMS ASTUTE once commissioned and in-service. The ceremony this week launches her as ASTUTE.
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