Named after the legendary Greek king, Agamemnon weighs 7,400 tonnes and spans 97 metres in length. The nuclear-powered vessel was rolled out from the Devonshire Dock Hall today, marking its first entry into the water. The submarine will now undergo an extensive phase of testing and commissioning before beginning sea trials under the Royal Navy’s command.
Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems Submarines, hailed the event as a major milestone, stating: “This is a hugely significant achievement for everyone at BAE Systems, the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, and the Royal Navy. Designing and building a nuclear-powered submarine is a highly complex task and a national effort. I commend the thousands of skilled individuals who have played a role in bringing Agamemnon to this point.”
He also emphasised the critical role that submarines play in national defence and the importance of continuing the collective effort to ensure Agamemnon is fully prepared to join her sister vessels in active service.
Commander David ‘Bing’ Crosby, Commanding Officer of Agamemnon, expressed his pride in the workforce’s accomplishments. “There is still much to do before we can depart from Barrow, but the entire team should feel immense pride in what they’ve achieved thus far. I look forward to collaborating with BAE Systems, the Submarine Delivery Agency, and the Defence Nuclear Enterprise to complete the final tests and prepare for Agamemnon’s exit.”
The Astute Class submarines are the largest and most advanced attack submarines ever built for the Royal Navy. Thanks to their cutting-edge nuclear propulsion systems, they never need refuelling. Additionally, they can generate their own oxygen and drinking water, allowing the 98-strong crew to operate submerged for extended periods without surfacing.
The first five submarines in the series—HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, HMS Artful, HMS Audacious, and HMS Anson—are already in service with the Royal Navy. Construction of the final submarine, Agincourt, is progressing well inside the Devonshire Dock Hall.
In addition to its work on the Astute Class, BAE Systems is also a key member of the Dreadnought Alliance, a partnership that includes the Submarine Delivery Agency and Rolls-Royce. This alliance is focused on delivering the next generation of the UK’s nuclear deterrent submarines.
BAE Systems, a global leader in advanced defence, aerospace, and security solutions, employs approximately 100,000 people across more than 40 countries, providing some of the most cutting-edge technologies in the industry.
