The Plymouth-based Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset has returned to sea for the first time in nine months, after an extensive revamp. The Type 23 frigate has a new lease of life as one of the most advanced fighting ships in the fleet due to a £20 million docking and upgrade in her home port in partnership with Babcock Marine. HMS Somerset’s captain Commander Mike Smith said: … [Read more...] about HMS Somerset sails after a nine-month refit
Navy News
Royal Navy aids stricken tug
Crews from two Royal Navy warships helped prevent a tug from sinking last night in a dramatic rescue off the Devon coast. Sailors from the frigate HMS Lancaster and offshore patrol ship HMS Severn struggled in dark, freezing conditions to plug a hole in the damaged hull of Christos XXII and pump out tons of water to prevent it sinking. They fought against the in-rushing … [Read more...] about Royal Navy aids stricken tug
Royal Marines live firing exercise.
Royal Marines based on the deployed Plymouth warship HMS Monmouth have been practising their ship-boarding skills to combat pirates and smugglers. Among the crew of HMS Monmouth is a detachment of the amphibious force of Royal Marines, vital for HMS Monmouth’s tasking at sea. One of the major roles of the Marines is conducting boarding missions against suspected … [Read more...] about Royal Marines live firing exercise.
MoD apprentices pass out at Plymouth Naval Base
The latest recruits to the Ministry of Defence at Plymouth, have been presented with their training qualifications. Eleven trainees passed out of the Devonport MOD Technician Apprenticeship Scheme and were presented with their awards at a ceremony in the HMS Drake Wardroom, HM Naval Base, by Commodore Graeme Little, base commander. Chris Warn, apprentice development manager … [Read more...] about MoD apprentices pass out at Plymouth Naval Base
HMS Sutherland home to Plymouth from six month patrol
The Royal Navy warship HMS Sutherland has returned to the UK to a rapturous welcome from 300 families and friends after a successful six-month patrol in the Middle East and Indian Ocean The ship was greeted by cheering and waving families wearing festive hats and holding banners with loving messages at HM Naval Base, Devonport, Plymouth on Saturday (15 December). The ship’s … [Read more...] about HMS Sutherland home to Plymouth from six month patrol
HMS Monmouth meets HMS Trenchant
Two Plymouth-based Royal Naval crews met in mid-ocean from the submarine HMS Trenchant and the frigate HMS Monmouth. The rendezvous also allowed some sailors a rare opportunity to swap roles and experience life above or beneath the waves respectively. Lieutenant Ian Shropshall Royal Navy, operations officer onboard HMS Trenchant, showed his appreciation for some time ‘up … [Read more...] about HMS Monmouth meets HMS Trenchant
Royal Navy hosts Russian Admiral
A delegation of six personnel from the Russian Navy, led by Admiral Viktor Chirkov, Commander-in-Chief Russian Federation Navy, has made a historic visit to Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST) at HMNB Devonport. The visit to FOST included time onboard HMS Richmond during its Operational Sea Training. Admiral Chirkov was hosted by Rear Admiral Clive Johnstone CBE, who said: “It … [Read more...] about Royal Navy hosts Russian Admiral
Elite Commandos train Olympic Rowers
Olympic rowers were tested to their limit by the elite Royal Marines in their bid to win medals at the Rio Games. Members of the GB Rowing Team’s lightweight squad hoping to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics literally broke the ice on a freezing day as they survived a shortened version of the renowned tough training. The rowers, including London 2012 Olympic silver … [Read more...] about Elite Commandos train Olympic Rowers
Royal Navy ladies football host Plymouth Argyle ladies
The Royal Navy’s best female footballers tackled Plymouth Argyle’s ladies in the city. The rare event, a friendly match, took place at HM Naval Base Devonport, Plymouth, in preparation for the inter-services tournament (against the RAF and Army) in March. A series of friendlies across the country have been organised including the home of Royal Naval Football in Portsmouth. … [Read more...] about Royal Navy ladies football host Plymouth Argyle ladies
Head of Royal Navy visits South West Royal Marines in Afghanistan
The most senior officer in the Royal Navy, the First Sea Lord, has paid a flying visit to South West-based 40 Commando Royal Marines in Afghanistan while on a tour to receive an overview of military operations. Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, visited Afghanistan to receive an first- hand update on operations and the transition to … [Read more...] about Head of Royal Navy visits South West Royal Marines in Afghanistan
