The Royal Navy’s latest and most advanced hunter-killer submarine, HMS Agamemnon, has been officially launched today at BAE Systems’ facility in Barrow. This significant milestone marks the first time the 7,400-tonne vessel has entered the water, following a carefully planned operation to move her from the construction hall to the basin.
HMS Agamemnon is the sixth of seven Astute-class submarines built for the Royal Navy over the past 25 years. Nicknamed ‘Awesome Aggie,’ she is named after the legendary Greek king who led the siege of Troy. Once she joins the fleet, HMS Agamemnon will operate at the forefront of submarine warfare, playing a key role in protecting the UK’s nuclear deterrent, supporting aircraft carrier task groups, gathering intelligence, and, when necessary, striking with pinpoint precision using her Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Commander David ‘Bing’ Crosby, HMS Agamemnon’s Commanding Officer, praised the collaborative efforts of BAE Systems, the submarine’s crew, and the wider Astute programme for making the launch possible. The launch took place 123 years to the day after the first Royal Navy submarine was completed in the same yard.
“It’s fantastic to finally see Awesome Aggie in the water, marking the beginning of the final stages of her construction and commissioning,” said Commander Crosby. “This has been a long and meticulously planned process, and everyone involved—from the crew to the people of Barrow—should be incredibly proud of what has been achieved.”
Commander Crosby, having previously commanded three of HMS Agamemnon’s sister boats—HMS Astute, Artful, and Anson—acknowledged the challenges that remain as they work towards completing the submarine’s final commissioning and exit from Barrow.
Able Seaman Writer Lana Chilton, who has supported the human resources hub for HMS Agamemnon over the past 18 months, shared her excitement about being part of the process. “It’s been a rewarding experience to witness the growth of both the boat and the crew. I’m thrilled to be involved in the launch of the Navy’s newest Astute-class submarine.”
Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems Submarines, called the roll-out and launch a “hugely significant milestone” and praised the thousands of skilled workers who have contributed to the project. “Submarines are a critical component of the UK’s defence, and we are focused on ensuring Agamemnon is ready to join her sister submarines in service with the Royal Navy as soon as possible,” he said.
In the same facility, work continues on HMS Agincourt, the seventh and final Astute-class submarine, as well as HMS Dreadnought, the first of the Royal Navy’s future nuclear deterrent submarines.
HMS Agamemnon is set to serve at the leading edge of submarine operations well into the 21st century, safeguarding the UK’s national interests and supporting Royal Navy missions across the globe.
This exciting milestone marks another step forward for the Royal Navy’s Submarine Service, and we are proud to share it with our supporters. Stay tuned for more updates on HMS Agamemnon and the Silent Service’s latest achievements.
