UK Defence Journal

By George Allison

12 December 2024

Source: https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/submarine-hms-triumph-returns-home-for-decommissioning/

The Royal Navy has bid farewell to the last of its iconic Trafalgar-class submarines, HMS Triumph, which has returned to Devonport Naval Base for the final time before decommissioning.

HMS Triumph, the seventh and final boat of her class, embarked on her final journey from Clyde Naval Base in Scotland.

“As HMS Triumph prepares to decommission, we reflect on her legacy with immense pride. This submarine has served not just as a vessel, but as a symbol of commitment, courage and camaraderie. Although HMS Triumph has carried out her missions with quiet strength and dedication, behind every mission, deployment, and triumph has been the sacrifice and steadfast support of the families who stood behind us.”

HMS Triumph was laid down at Barrow shipyard in 1987 and commissioned in 1991, the last of her class to be constructed. During her career, she demonstrated the remarkable endurance and capability of the Trafalgar-class submarines. In 1993, she completed a record-breaking deployment to Australia, travelling 41,000 miles submerged without support—the longest solo deployment by a Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarine at the time.

Her operational history includes firing Tomahawk missiles during the Afghanistan conflict in 2001 and participating in international efforts in Libya, targeting military positions to protect civilians. On both occasions, she flew the Jolly Roger upon her return—a tradition symbolising successful combat missions within the Submarine Service.

Rear Admiral Andy Perks, Royal Navy Director Submarine, highlighted the significance of her retirement:

“Having spent many years serving in Trafalgar-class SSNs, it is with both pride and sadness that I see these excellent submarines reach the end of their career. These vessels have helped keep our country safe for over 30 years. As this era ends though, we can be assured that our Submarine Service remains well served by the Astute-class SSN.”

The Trafalgar-class submarines, initially commissioned during the Cold War, played a vital role in maintaining the United Kingdom’s maritime security for over three decades. Triumph follows her sister vessels—HMS Talent, Trenchant, Torbay, Tireless, Turbulent, and Trafalgar—into retirement as the baton is passed to the Astute-class attack submarines.

The Astute-class represents the largest, most advanced, and most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy. Currently, HMS Astute, Ambush, Artful, Audacious, and Anson are in service, with two more under construction at BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness.

Triumph’s formal decommissioning ceremony, scheduled for early 2025, will symbolise the completion of this transition.