The Royal Navy's latest, most advanced attack submarine commissioned into the Royal Navy at HM Naval Base Clyde.
Ambush was commissioned into the Royal Navy during a ceremony overseen by the submarine’s crew, naval base workers and around 500 invited guests.
Among the dignitaries attending the event was the First Sea Lord , Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope, and the vessel’s sponsor, Lady Anne Soar, who were joined by representatives from the City of Derby , to which the submarine is affiliated. Also in attendance were proud family members and loved ones of the crew.
Admiral Stanhope said:
"It is my great pleasure to welcome HMS Ambush into the Royal Navy fleet during this important and noteworthy occasion. HMS Ambush is the second of the Royal Navy’s Astute Class submarines. These vessels represent the cutting-edge of military technology and the future of UK submarine operations for many years to come. The Astute Class vessels will contribute significantly to our mission of protecting the UK’s interests worldwide."
Launched on 5 January 2011 at the BAE Systems shipyard at Barrow-in-Furness, Ambush arrived at her home port of HM Naval Base Clyde on 19 September 2012. Since then, the submarine has undergone extensive sea trials to ensure she is ready to become part of the fleet, with the White Ensign being raised for the first time on 18 January after the signing of the ‘certificate of acceptance’.
The Commanding Officer of HMS Ambush, Commander Peter Green, said:
"The crew are immensely proud to mark the commissioning, and to see the culmination of many months of hard work readying HMS Ambush for service with the Royal Navy. HMS Ambush’s crew are now looking forward to the challenges ahead and to exploring the full range of the submarine’s capabilities before she enters full operational service later this year."