Royal Navy's Newest Astute-Class Submarine Progresses Toward Front-Line Operations
HMS Anson, the latest and most advanced Astute-class submarine of the Royal Navy, is nearing operational status after extensive trials in the Atlantic and Caribbean. The submarine successfully tested its state-of-the-art systems and weaponry, ensuring readiness for future missions.
HMS Anson, the Royal Navy's newest and most advanced Astute-class hunter-killer submarine, is on the verge of entering operational service after rigorous testing in the Atlantic. The fifth boat in its class, Anson, underwent trials off the east coast of the United States and in the Caribbean Sea, thoroughly evaluating its cutting-edge systems and weaponry.
Astute-class submarines are the largest and most advanced attack submarines in Royal Navy history. They can launch long-range Tomahawk missiles to accurately hit land targets and deploy lethal Spearfish torpedoes to defeat enemy submarines. These nuclear-powered submarines can circumnavigate the globe while submerged, producing their own oxygen and drinking water, allowing for prolonged deployments.
HMS Anson left the shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness in February last year and has since been subjected to extensive trials and tests. Initially, Anson conducted tests in UK waters and off the coast of Scotland, successfully firing both Spearfish and Tomahawk test missiles.
The testing phase intensified as Anson moved to the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center (AUTEC) near the Bahamas. AUTEC is a US Navy facility known for its advanced testing capabilities, utilizing the unique environment of the Tongue of the Ocean. This deep-water bowl, surrounded by coral reef, is equipped with sensors and hydrophones that gather critical data on submarine, torpedo, and sonar performance.
These tests at AUTEC are vital for ensuring Anson's ability to detect and hunt adversary submarines without being detected. The trials also provided the crew with some downtime on Andros Island, where they could relax and interact with base personnel.
Additionally, Anson's crew performed maintenance at the US Navy submarine base in Kings Bay, Georgia. This stop allowed the crew to meet with personnel from a US Navy Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, providing an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning.
While in the United States, 14 UK submariners visited The Citadel, a US military college in Charleston. They met with a 4-star US Marine Corps General and learned about the college's historical ties with the Submarine Service during World War II. Anson's crew also conducted a memorial ceremony at the HMS Seraph Memorial on the college grounds, marking the first Royal Navy visit since 1998.
In the Caribbean, the crew enjoyed a 'hands to bathe' session, diving into the warm waters from the submarine's hydroplanes to conclude their busy deployment. Following these comprehensive trials and tests, HMS Anson is poised to join its operational sisters, Astute, Ambush, Artful, and Audacious, enhancing the Royal Navy's capabilities in underwater warfare.