HM Naval Base Clyde

08/10/2026

The Royal Navy's submarine community gathered in force at the annual Submariner Awards Ceremony, affectionately known as the "Submarine Oscars", held at the Hilton Hotel, Glasgow on Saturday 3 October.
The black-tie event welcomed more than 350 guests, including serving submariners, family members, civil partners, veterans, charities, industrial partners, and supporters from across the Defence Nuclear Enterprise and wider submarine community. Dressed in their finest attire, attendees came together to celebrate the exceptional achievements, dedication, and commitment of those who have gone above and beyond in support of the Submarine Service.
This year's ceremony was hosted by Magic Radio DJ Nick Snaith, who acted as Master of Ceremonies throughout the evening. Awards were presented by Deputy Rear Admiral Submarines and Commander Submarine Flotilla, Commodore Ben Haskins CBE. The prestigious Molyneux Award was presented by Mrs Jill Molyneux.
As well as celebrating the achievements of the current generation of submariners and those who support them, the event also gave those attending an opportunity to join the celebrations marking 125 years since the silent service was formed.
Since the launch of Holland 1 in 1901 the Royal Navy Submarine Service has provided an invaluable defence capability, helping to protect our country through two World Wars, the Cold War, and other conflicts.
A total of twelve awards were presented during the evening, recognising outstanding achievement across operational excellence, engineering, training, family support, welfare, and community engagement.
Commodore Ben Haskins CBE, Deputy Rear Admiral Submarines and Commander Submarine Flotilla, said: “The Submarine Awards is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the efforts of all of the extraordinary people, both in uniform and without who make the submarine service so formidable.
“I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to all of this year’s winners and my sincere thanks to our industrial and charitable partners without whom this celebration would not be possible.
The following awards were presented during this year’s Submarine Oscars:
The Conqueror Prize
Sponsored by Thales
Awarded for Operational Excellence within the underwater battlespace.
Winner: HMS ANSON
The Submarine Engineering Excellence Award
Awarded to the crew or organisation demonstrating engineering excellence in support of submarine operations.
Winner: HMS VANGUARD'S SCPO UNION
The Royal Navy Family and People Support (RNFPS) Award
Awarded to the individual or organisation providing the highest level of support to the submarine community.
Winner: Mrs Megan Thompson
The Dean Rogers MBE Submarine Family Award
Sponsored by RNRMC and The Submarine Family
Awarded to the volunteer or team providing significant benefit to the wellbeing of submariners and their families.
Winner: Tazmin Kirk
The Submariners Association Award
Awarded to the SSBN-streamed trainee who has displayed the qualities and ethos of the submarine cadre and stood above their peers during initial training.
Winner: Lt A I G Hayes RN
The Naval Families Federation Award
Awarded to advocates who have successfully championed positive change and improvements on behalf of Naval families.
Winner: Fiona Howard
The WRS Award
Sponsored by We Remember Submariners (WRS)
Awarded to a serving submariner, veteran, or family and community member whose dedication and commitment have made a lasting contribution to the wellbeing of the Submarine Service and its people.
Winner: Laura Eales
The Molyneux Award
Sponsored by FAST Training Services Limited
Awarded to the SSN-streamed trainee who has displayed the qualities and ethos of the submarine cadre and stood above their peers during initial training.
Winner: AB(WS)TSM Van Staden
The Distinguished Achievement Award
Awarded to those who have achieved distinction within their chosen discipline while enhancing the reputation of the Submarine Service.
Winner: SMERAS Training Facility and Staff
Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Mark Jones plays a key role in organising the event and has enjoyed being involved for many years.
“It’s amazing to organise an event of this scale bringing the Submarine Service, their families, Industrial Partners and Affiliates together for a night of enjoyment whilst also strengthening bonds,” said Mark
“The aim of the evening is to celebrate the achievements of the Submarine Service and show our gratitude and give recognition to those who have worked extra hard throughout this extremely challenging year.”
The evening was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including ACTS, TKMS, Veolia, Rolls-Royce, RB Safety, Babcock, Thales, QinetiQ, GE Vernova, Lockheed Martin, WRS, ESS and Malin Group.
Guests were entertained by popular Glasgow band Wireless, while a piper welcomed attendees on arrival. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a professional photography backdrop and commemorative Submarine Awards photo frames, as well as a themed photobooth complete with props.
There was also some fundraising throughout the evening. Two raffles and an auction were held in support of Military vs Cancer and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC). The fundraising activities raised more than £8,000, with the top raffle prize being a £4,000 Hays Travel voucher.
The annual awards continue to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary professionalism, resilience and community spirit that underpin the Royal Navy's Submarine Service, recognising the individuals, teams, and organisations whose efforts make a lasting difference both at sea and ashore.

06/10/2026

How do you keep active on a submarine?

We’ve asked Taylor, a Royal Navy submariner, his top tips for staying fit onboard.

05/10/2026

ROYAL NAVY submariners celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Submarine Service were at Windsor Castle on September 30th for a gala dinner to mark the occasion.

200 submariners and guests were invited to the special event which was also attended by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales who is Commodore-in-Chief of the Submarine Service.

Also there was the First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, Chief of Defence Nuclear Madeline McTernan, and Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse.

One of the guests of honour was Sir Mark Stanhope, the most senior veteran of the Submarine Service, having served as First Sea Lord from 2009 to 2013.

The submariners received the royal treatment, with guests greeted at Windsor Castle’s Quadrangle – the central courtyard of the castle’s upper ward used as a reception site for visiting heads of state and dignitaries.

Here there was a ceremonial sunset, a Royal Navy tradition sometimes affectionately known as “putting the King to bed”, where the White Ensign and Union Flag are lowered at dusk.

Guests then proceeded to the impressive Waterloo Chamber, the huge state room which was built to commemorate the final defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte, and which features 28 portraits of kings, generals, and leaders involved. Dinner was served in St George’s Hall where His Royal Highness delivered a speech highlighting how the Submarine Service demands exceptional skill, unwavering trust in one another, and a readiness to face challenges that very few can fully comprehend.

It is a calling which also demands profound sacrifice, he emphasised, with long periods away from home, little or no contact with the outside world, and the willingness to serve in a unique and unforgiving environment.

The dinner was accompanied by a brass quintet from the Royal Marines Band and culminated in traditional style with the singing of sea shanties, delivered with much gusto!

Rear Admiral Andy Perks MBE, Rear Admiral Submarines, said: “Tonight brought together a remarkable cross-section of the Submarine Service community to celebrate 125-years of service to the nation.

“The Submarine Service has always been more than the boats we operate or the missions we undertake; it is a community bound by shared experience, mutual trust and enduring friendships that span generations. It is particularly fitting that we have been able to mark this milestone at Windsor Castle with our Commodore-in-Chief, reflecting upon both the proud history of our service and the exciting future that lies ahead.”

The event was held almost 125-years to the day that the Royal Navy’s first submarine, Holland 1, was launched from Barrow-in-Furness, and just a few days after the service’s latest submarine, HMS Agamemnon, sailed from the same location on September 25th.

The Windsor Castle gala dinner was one in a series of events throughout the year marking 125 years since the birth of the Submarine Service.

In April, Royal Navy submariners returning home from a deterrent patrol were met by the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary in recognition of the dedication and sacrifice submariners and their families make to protect our nation.

Later, in June, HM Naval Base Clyde – the home of the Submarine Service – was visited by His Royal Highness Prince William. While at the site he visited a Vanguard Class submarine and spent time with submariners’ family members to learn about their lives and experiences.

There have also been smaller celebrations throughout the year, including a Submarine Service birthday bash for service children, conferences, and even a fun “Battle of the Boats” sporting competition.

Commodore Ben Haskins, Commander of the Submarine Flotilla, said: “This was a truly memorable event, that provided the opportunity to mark the contribution of all those who serve and have served, and their loved ones.

“The theme of this year’s series of events – ‘from Holland 1 to HMS Agamemnon’ – provides a unique opportunity to celebrate both our heritage and our bright future as an integral part of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.”

The Royal Navy Submarine Service began with the arrival of its first vessel, Holland 1, in 1901. The navy recruited six officers under the command of Captain Reginald Bacon who was appointed “Inspecting Captain of Submarines”.

Initially dismissed as “underhand, unfair, and damned un-English”, submarines soon proved their worth. During the First World War the service was awarded five Victoria Crosses, going on to earn 14 during its 125-year history.

Today, the Royal Navy Submarine Service provides the UK with unique military capabilities. They can operate undetected, contribute to intelligence gathering, special operations, and can carry out surprise attacks at sea with torpedoes and on land using Tomahawk missiles.

Submarines also provide a deterrent effect with the navy’s Vanguard Class vessels contributing to the delivery of the UK’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD), a mission which the Royal Navy has fulfilled, unbroken, since 1969.

From the 2030s the nuclear deterrent baton will be passed to the next generation of submarines – the Dreadnought Class.

Work is underway at HM Naval Base Clyde to develop the site to prepare for the arrival of the Dreadnoughts as well as the next generation of attack submarines, known as SSN-AUKUS.

04/10/2026

02/10/2026

A few more great pictures of HMS Agamemnon as she makes her way to HMNB Clyde- The Home of the Submarine Service. Courtesy of Nick Hepworth

02/10/2026

HOME IS THE HUNTER

Warm welcome as sixth Astute-class submarine arrives at her homeport on the Clyde.

HMS Agamemnon, the sixth of the Royal Navy’s Astute-class hunter-killer submarines, has arrived today (October 2nd) at her homeport of HM Naval Base Clyde.

The vessel, which sailed from BAE Systems in Barrow on September 25th, was met with a warm welcome, with members of the Submarine Flotilla lining up to greet her alongside Director Submarines Rear Admiral Andy Perks, Naval Base Commander Clyde Commodore Andy Bray, and Commander of the Submarine Flotilla Commodore Ben Haskins.

“The arrival of HMS Agamemnon at HM Naval Base Clyde is a significant milestone for the Royal Navy,” said Rear Admiral Perks. “Her delivery reflects the dedication, skill and collaboration of thousands of people across our Defence Nuclear Enterprise, who have worked together to build one of the world’s most capable attack submarines and deliver a formidable warfighting capability for the United Kingdom.

“As she begins a demanding programme of sea trials and operational preparation, I am delighted to welcome the Submarine and her Ship’s Company to their new home on the Clyde, and I look forward to seeing them join the operational fleet in due course.”

Since leaving her “place of birth” at Barrow, the submarine and her crew of around 100 Royal Navy submariners have been putting the high-tech vessel through her paces at sea.

The submarine’s performance, manoeuvrability, speed, and general seaworthiness are all put to the test during a rigorous series of sea trials which will continue over the coming weeks and months.

The first arrival at HM Naval Base Clyde came at a particularly special time for the Submarine Service, with the boat coming alongside the base exactly 125-years to the day when the Royal Navy’s first submarine, Holland 1, was launched.

The Commanding Officer of HMS Agamemnon, Commander John Gabb, said: “It is an enormous privilege to be the first person to command this vessel at sea.

“We will get to know Agamemnon well over the coming months, but this submarine is incredibly quiet, has a world-class Sonar and will be home to us all as we generate for operations.”

HMS Agamemnon’s keel was laid in July 2013 and she was commissioned by His Majesty King Charles III on September 22nd, 2025.

The submarine’s first trim dive was soon after in October 2025 at BAE Barrow’s Devonshire Dock Hall where she was submerged some 15 metres.

Agamemnon’s first dive at sea, however, was conducted on her way to her new home at HM Naval Base Clyde. Under the watchful eye of a Royal Navy Merlin helicopter the submarine “took the plunge” in the Inner Hebrides Exercise Areas.

Commander Gabb continued: “The first dive for any submarine is a significant achievement in its generation. While this time we were being supported by a Merlin helicopter, it will not be long before we are conducting realistic pre-operational training using the same aircraft to simulate the enemy.

“Next time we will be pushing the crew and the submarine to its maximum potential to operate undetected.”

The Astute-class are the largest, most advanced and most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy.

HMS Astute, Ambush, Artful, Audacious, and Anson are already in service with the Royal Navy, with Agamemnon set to join them as an operational vessel following the completion of her trials. The seventh, and final, vessel of the class – HMS Achilles – is currently under construction at Barrow.

Commander of the Submarine Flotilla, Commodore Ben Haskins, said: “Welcoming HMS Agamemnon, the newest submarine of the Flotilla into her new home at HM Naval Base Clyde is a special moment for our Service. To get here the crew have conducted themselves with the professionalism and dedication that is expected from every one of our submariners.

“Today’s milestone marks the first step on a journey which will soon see this outstanding boat delivering high-tempo operations across the globe.”

The Astutes are the first class not to be fitted with optical periscopes, instead using high-specification video technology to scan the horizon. They are also the quietest submarines ever constructed, can circumnavigate the globe completely submerged, creating their own oxygen and drinking water.

Among the class’s formidable arsenal is the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile, allowing them to strike ground targets hundreds of miles inland with pinpoint accuracy. They also carry the Spearfish torpedo which can attack targets up to 30 miles away at low speed.

Photo credits: LPhot Connor Kilbride

25/09/2026

Can’t wait to see you at HMNB Clyde

18/09/2026

HMS Queen Elizabeth is the largest, most powerful warship ever constructed for the Royal Navy. Find out more about her role here.

04/09/2026

Submariners are accustomed to operating in demanding environments where success depends upon every individual pulling in the same direction. That teamwork took a more visible form as personnel from across the Flotilla gathered at the Helensburgh Rugby Club on Wednesday, September 2 to compete for the historic HMS Dolphin Tug of War Challenge Cup.

Submariners came together for the reinvigorated SUBFLOT Sports Day, an event designed to strengthen cohesion, foster friendly competition and celebrate the spirit of the Submarine Service. The event centred on the eagerly anticipated Battle of the Boats Tug of War Final.

The competition traces its origins to two successful Battle of the Boats events held earlier this year at HMNB Clyde and HMNB Devonport. Following positive feedback from participants at the events, Deputy Rear Admiral Submarines and Commander Submarine Flotilla, Commodore Ben Haskins CBE, suggested the development of a larger Flotilla-wide event built around a Tug of War competition between Submariners.

The previous Tug of War events became qualifiers and pitted two teams against each other for the historic HMS Dolphin Tug of War Challenge Cup. The trophy was first competed for in 1929 and was recently revived for this year as part of ongoing SM125 celebrations. Since its return, the trophy has already generated enthusiastic competition throughout the year.

Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Iain Hamblin, who has been instrumental in helping revive the HMS Dolphin Tug of War Trophy, said:

"The trophy represents an important piece of submarine heritage. Seeing Submariners competing once again for the honour of having their boat's name associated with it has generated tremendous enthusiasm across the Service."

HMS Vigilant emerged triumphant from the Clyde competition, whilst HMS Triumph triumphed in Devonport, which set the stage for the eagerly awaited final in Helensburgh earlier in the week. Although HMS Triumph was decommissioned in 2025, a number of submariners remain formally affiliated with the boat while post-decommissioning activities, career transitions and administrative processes are completed.

After a well-fought battle, HMS Triumph emerged victorious and claimed The Dolphin Cup and bragging rights!

Lieutenant Paddy Sheekey, Officer in Charge, SUBFLOT People Hub, said:

"The Battle of the Boats concept has already demonstrated how much appetite exists across the Submarine Service for friendly competition and opportunities to come together as one team.

“The Sports Day builds on that success and provides an opportunity for submariners from across the Flotilla to reconnect, compete and strengthen the bonds that underpin operational effectiveness."

The Dolphin Cup Final may have been the headline attraction, but the wider Battle of the Boats competition was designed to ensure the entire Flotilla could take part. A Plate Competition ran alongside the main trophy contest, creating further opportunities for rivalry, teamwork and bragging rights between boats, waterfront organisations and supporting units.

The event also included a BBQ, providing an opportunity for personnel to spend time together away from the operational environment. Funding was secured to support the venue hire, catering and event delivery, with up to 300 personnel in attendance.

After the success of the event, organisers are hoping that the event will establish a lasting tradition. Discussions are already underway to make the Sports Day an annual fixture, with future events potentially alternating between HMNB Clyde and HMNB Devonport.

📸 Credit: PO Phot Gareth Smith

27/08/2026

MUSICAL talent from around the globe descended on Edinburgh Castle from August 7th-29th as it once again became the iconic backdrop for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

The theme of this year’s event was “A Call to Gather”, and gather they did, with a huge variety of musical performers descending on the Castle’s Esplanade for the entertainment extravaganza.

The Royal Navy was proud, to once again, host a series of special evenings at the 2026 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The designated evenings brought together senior military leaders, government partners, international allies and industry representatives to celebrate our shared values, enduring partnerships and maritime excellence.

Each evening showcased a key theme reflecting the Royal Navy's strategic priorities and international relationships:

Saturday 15 August | USA 250

Marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, Saturday evening celebrated the deep and enduring partnership between the Royal Navy, United States Navy and United States Marine Corps. Hosted by Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Paul Beattie CBE, guests joined senior UK and US military leaders in recognising generations of cooperation and shared commitment to global security.

Monday 17 August | Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and the High North

Hosted by Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse CBE, Monday’s event highlighted the importance of the Joint Expeditionary Force and the growing significance of the High North region. The evening brought together defence leaders from across partner nations to celebrate collective security and operational collaboration.

Wednesday 19 August | USA Nuclear Partnership

Once again hosted by Fleet Commander, Wednesday evening recognised the long-standing strategic partnership between the United Kingdom and United States in support of the Continuous At Sea Deterrent. Both senior British and American naval leaders attended the evening, celebrating the decades of cooperation that underpin regional and global stability.

Thursday 20 August | Hybrid Navy and Shipbuilding

Hosted by Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren OBE, Defence Adviser to the Middle East, the evening focused on innovation, transformation and the future of maritime capability. Guests explored how advances in technology, digital systems and shipbuilding are shaping the next generation of the Royal Navy.

Saturday 22 August | Clyde Transformation Programme

The last of the Royal Navy hosting nights was once again hosted by Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Paul Beattie CBE, and highlighted the strategic importance of HM Naval Base Clyde and the partnerships supporting its ongoing transformation. The event brought together defence, industry and regional stakeholders to celebrate investment, opportunity and the future of the Royal Navy's presence in Scotland.

With REMT coming to close this week, the Royal Navy looks forward to welcoming guests to Edinburgh for next year’s celebrations where they’ll have the lead, celebrating the strong partnerships that continue to strengthen maritime security and defence cooperation around the world.

As well as Tattoo staples of the Massed Pipes and Drums and Tattoo Dancers, this year also saw performances from the Massed Military Bands of the RAF; the German Army Band Koblenz; the US Army Field Band; Qatar Police Academy Band and Drill Team; the 10th Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment Pipes and Drums; the 145 (Scottish) Regiment Royal Logistic Corps; Vancouver Police Pipe and Drums; the Bugles, Pipes and Drums of the Royal Irish Regiment; and the New Zealand Army Band.

It made for a spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo show – one that was seen by an estimated 220,000 visitors and watched by around 100 million TV viewers world-wide.

The first public military tattoo in Edinburgh took place in 1949 in Princes Street Gardens. In 1950 the first official Tattoo was held on the Esplanade attracting around 6,000 spectators.

It was in 2010 that the event became the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo after HM Queen Elizabeth II awarded it the Royal title to mark 60 years of performances.

📸 LPhot Connor Kilbride and LPhot Scott Barnett