Her Majesty The Queen has paid tribute to the crew and families of HMS Astute during a ceremony at HM Naval Base Devonport to mark the end of the submarine’s first commission. In a speech, Queen Camilla, who serves as the vessel’s Sponsor, hailed the achievements of the UK’s most advanced submarine and the dedication of those who served aboard her.
Eighteen years after she first visited Barrow-in-Furness to witness the early stages of HMS Astute’s construction, The Queen reflected on the submarine’s remarkable journey: 11 commanding officers, 307 million nautical miles, and 357 harbour entries. “It is such a pleasure,” she said, “to bring together the entire Ship’s Company to celebrate HMS ASTUTE’s first commission.”
During her address, The Queen offered a deeply personal insight into the evolution of HMS Astute and the people behind its success. As the UK’s first digital-era submarine, the vessel’s journey has been marked by innovation and strategic excellence. Queen Camilla praised the ship’s cutting-edge capabilities, from advanced communications software to improvised solutions in the most testing environments. “Each time I have met your Commanding Officers and visited the submarine,” she said, “I am reminded of the exceptional servicemen and women in our Royal Navy.”
She spoke warmly of the ingenuity and resilience of the crew, noting efforts such as coding innovations and using everyday materials like clingfilm to maintain vacuum systems in the middle of the Indian Ocean. “It is this inquisitive spirit and razor-sharp professionalism that has steered you all through dangerous waters and, thanks to your efforts, ensured the safety of this nation and our allies.”
The Queen also acknowledged the unique challenges of life aboard a submarine, where sailors endure long periods without communication and rely on one another like family. “I am sure there are mixed emotions for you all today,” she said, “as this close family disperses and another, in several years, takes shape as she is again ready to set sail.”
Looking ahead to HMS Astute’s next phase, Queen Camilla spoke of the demanding journey that lies ahead as the submarine undergoes a comprehensive refit. With new technologies and evolving threats, she said, the vessel is likely to return to service in an unfamiliar world—but one that her crew will face with “usual tenacity.”
In a historic moment for the Royal Navy, the day also saw Queen Camilla appointed as the first female Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom, cementing her long-standing support for the Armed Forces and breaking new ground in the Navy’s centuries-old traditions.
Concluding her speech, Queen Camilla offered one final naval order in honour of the crew’s achievements: “Splice the Mainbrace” – a traditional toast used to celebrate success in the Royal Navy.
