Article Posted on : - Sep 27, 2013

HMS Duncan - the sixth and last of the Royal Navy's new-generation Type 45 destroyers. Photo: UK Ministry of Defence

LONDON (BNS): The Royal Navy has formally commissioned the sixth and last of its new-generation Type 45 destroyers, HMS Duncan, the UK Ministry of Defence said.

The 'Christening' ceremony held on Thursday at Portsmouth Naval Base, marked a significant milestone for the fleet of Portsmouth-based Type 45s, "the most powerful ships of their type ever built for the Royal Navy."

The first, HMS Daring, was commissioned in July 2009 and has been followed by sister ships Dauntless, Diamond, Dragon, Defender and now Duncan.

Principal guests present at the ceremony included Lady Marie Ibbotson - the ship's sponsor who launched the vessel at BAE Systems' Govan shipyard on the River Clyde in October 2010 - and First Sea Lord Admiral Sir George Zambellas.

Commander James Stride, Duncan's Commanding Officer, said the event was a proud moment for all personnel serving in the ship.

"The commissioning ceremony marks a major milestone in the life of HMS Duncan."

"Today also marks the effective end of the Type 45 build programme with the final destroyer now commissioned. We are delighted that it was shared with so many distinguished guests, friends, family, affiliates and former Duncanites."

The first four Type 45s have already experienced life on operational deployments and the fifth - HMS Defender - is due to deploy for the first time next year.

HMS Duncan will continue an intense period of trials and training around the UK lasting well into next year before being ready to undertake operational tasking along with her sister ships around the globe.