Article Posted on : - Sep 16, 2011

Royal Navy submarine HMS Astute. A UK MoD photo

LONDON (BNS): The new Astute-class nuclear attack submarine of the British Royal Navy has been christened ‘HMS Anson’.

The fifth Astute-class nuke sub has been named after Admiral of the Fleet George Anson (1697-1762) who is noted for his circumnavigation of the globe and his role overseeing the Royal Navy during the Seven Years’ War.

“I am pleased to announce that Astute Class Submarine Hull 5 is to be named HMS Anson. She will join HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, HMS Artful and HMS Audacious,” British Defence Secretary Liam Fox said.

The Astute-class submarines which will replace the Swiftsure and Trafalgar class submarines of the Royal Navy, are designed to carry out a range of strategic and tactical roles, including anti-ship and anti-submarine operations, surveillance and intelligence gathering and support for land forces.

BAE Systems is building seven submarines in the class. Each sub is 318 feet long and armed with a mix of Spearfish torpedoes and Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles.

With a water displacement of 7,400 tonnes, the vessel incorporates advanced stealth technology along with world class sonar system, greater firepower and latest communication systems.