Latest Astute class sub ready for sea trials

13 September 2012

The second of the Royal Navy's Astute class attack submarines is ready to begin sea trials after leaving the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, it has been announced.

The future HMS Ambush is now sailing to HM Naval Base Clyde at Faslane ahead of the months of sea trials necessary before the submarine is commissioned into the fleet next year.

Newly appointed Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Philip Dunne said that he had been "hugely impressed" by his first visit to Barrow to see the boat.

"Ambush and her sisters are the most powerful and advanced attack submarines ever ordered for the Royal Navy, they are needed by the fleet and they will play a vital role in the future defence of the UK," said Dunne.

"The completion of Ambush is a tribute to the hard work and commitment of the thousands of people employed in this country's world-class submarine industry."

Ambush's commanding officer, Commander Peter Green, said: "We are grateful to all the people who have worked hard to construct this vessel. The crew cannot wait to start sea trials and take this magnificent vessel a step closer to beginning operations.

"It is now time to start putting Ambush through her paces on sea trials and prove that this amazing piece of equipment is ready for operations."