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Royal Navy Retires HMS Richmond After 31 Years

1/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Royal Navy confirmed HMS Richmond's retirement after 31 years at a farewell parade in Richmond, Yorkshire, with no new frigates expected before 2028.
HMS Richmond was commissioned in 1995, and Swan Hunter built it.
Despite upgrades, the hull became unrepairable after extensive operations.
The frigate deployed in the Red Sea and the Taiwan Strait.
Decommissioning leaves six Type 23 frigates and no new frigates will be operational before 2028.

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Story summary

The Royal Navy confirmed HMS Richmond's retirement after 31 years at a farewell parade in Richmond, Yorkshire, with no new frigates expected before 2028.
HMS Richmond was commissioned in 1995, and Swan Hunter built it.
Despite upgrades, the hull became unrepairable after extensive operations.
The frigate deployed in the Red Sea and the Taiwan Strait.
Decommissioning leaves six Type 23 frigates and no new frigates will be operational before 2028.