HMS Agamemnon: details of the dive and what the Astute-class signifies for the UK Royal Navy
HMS Agamemnon completed its first dive at BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness last month. (Photo: Crown Copyright)
As HMS Agamemnon moves closer towards joining the UK’s in-service submarine fleet, how does the sixth Astute-class fit into the Royal Navy’s defence strategy?
In an encouraging development for the UK Navy, HMS Agamemnon came through the trim dive stage last month, which is a key part of its testing before it embarks into active service.
The trim dive comprises two segments: the basin dive and the trim and inclining experiment.
The basin dive is where many of the on-board systems are fully examined, including testing the ballast tanks which ensures the boat can surface, while the trim and inclining experiment is to validate the centre of gravity of the submarine. This is measured by naval architects in both surfaced and submerged conditions.
Measuring the
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Naval primes dive into an underwater acquisition gold rush]()
Naval primes dive into an underwater acquisition gold rush
A cluster of acquisitions by Fincantieri, Thales, Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall points to a race to secure underwater warfare, autonomy and sensing capability.
-
![Baltic naval priorities shift towards mine warfare and versatile platforms]()
Baltic naval priorities shift towards mine warfare and versatile platforms
Baltic states are investing in mine warfare, uncrewed systems and multirole platforms as major warship purchases remain scarce, industry sources indicate.
-
![India’s mine countermeasure drive triggers rush of new partnerships]()
India’s mine countermeasure drive triggers rush of new partnerships
Parallel procurement pathways for crewed mine countermeasure vessels and uncrewed systems underline a shift towards next-generation mine warfare for the Indian Navy.
-
![Finland’s naval sector eyes growth opportunities in NATO era]()
Finland’s naval sector eyes growth opportunities in NATO era
Finland’s naval industrial base is expanding as NATO membership, Baltic Sea security concerns and proximity to Russia push shipbuilders and equipment makers to capture new roles.
