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HMS Agamemnon Reaches Faslane Following First Operational Dive
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Arrival and Initial Sea Trial
On 2 October, HMS Agamemnon docked at HMNB Clyde after a seven-day transit from Barrow. En route north, the sixth Astute-class attack submarine performed its first dive at sea in the Inner Hebrides exercise area, observed by a Merlin helicopter. The dive marked the first time an RN attack submarine had been at sea for a week since HMS Anson returned to Devonport on 27 May.
Background of the Astute-Class Delivery Voyage
Unlike her two predecessors—HMS Audacious (left Barrow in April 2020) and HMS Anson (sailed on 19 February 2023)—Agamemnon began pre-operational trials during the delivery voyage rather than after arrival at Faslane. Earlier boats completed only a shallow “trim dive” in Barrow’s basin, where the vessel was lowered about 15 metres under controlled conditions. The Royal Navy appears to be accelerating the testing schedule, potentially to reduce the interval before the submarine becomes operational.
Key Personnel
Cdr John Gabb assumed command before the sea passage, becoming the first officer to take Agamemnon to sea. Cdr David Crosby, who oversaw the naming, launch and commissioning of both Agamemnon and Anson, continues to supervise submarines under construction at Barrow in a non-operational capacity. Rear Admiral Andy Perks, Director of Submarines, received the vessel on arrival at Faslane.
Recent Milestones Timeline
- 2 October – Arrival at Faslane after first sea dive.
- 27 May – HMS Anson’s last sea week, providing the previous benchmark for RN attack submarines.
- 19 February 2023 – HMS Anson sailed from Barrow directly to Clyde, beginning sea trials only after arrival.
Significance for the Submarine Service
Agamemnon’s early testing aligns with the Royal Navy’s celebration of 125 years of the Submarine Service, recalling the launch of Holland 1 at the same Barrow yard on 2 October 1901. If the accelerated programme proceeds as anticipated, Agamemnon could be ready for operational deployment toward the end of 2027, shortening the timeline experienced by earlier Astute-class boats.