Trident nuclear submarine concludes record underwater deployment
Summary
HMS Vengeance returned to the Faslane naval base in Scotland after a 217-day submerged patrol, setting a new record for a British Trident submarine deployment. Longer patrols reflect delays in submarine maintenance and raise concerns about the demands on crews and the condition of the fleet.Key Facts
- HMS Vengeance began its patrol on 12 April and returned on Sunday after spending 217 days submerged.
- The deployment exceeded the previous record of 205 days, set by the submarine’s previous crew.
- HMS Vengeance is one of four Royal Navy submarines that carry Britain’s Trident nuclear missiles.
- Vanguard-class submarines were designed to carry about three to four months of food for crews of roughly 140 people.
- The submarines keep their locations secret and cannot be resupplied while on patrol.
- Royal Navy chief Gen Sir Gwyn Jenkins said the UK needs to improve submarine maintenance to speed up turnaround times.
- Labour announced a £26bn, 10-year investment plan for the naval bases at Faslane, Devonport and Portsmouth.
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