The Royal Navy’s sixth Astute-class submarine, the HMS Agamemnon (S124), has sailed to open waters for the first time, around two years after it was launched in October 2024.
The 97-meter (318-foot) nuclear-powered attack submarine departed BAE Systems’ shipyard in the Royal Port of Barrow-in-Furness, heading for the Walney Channel and on into the Irish Sea to begin sea trials.
Following tests and training, the submarine is expected to arrive at HM Naval Base Clyde to join the rest of the UK’s submarine fleet.
HMS Agamemnon
HMS Agamemnon was commissioned into the navy in September 2025 and completed its maiden dive at BAE Systems’ Barrow-in-Furness shipyard the month after.
Nicknamed “Awesome Aggie,” the submarine will be deployed for several missions, including protecting the UK’s nuclear deterrent submarines from enemy interference and delivering long-range tactical strikes using Tomahawk cruise missiles and Spearfish torpedoes.
“As we continue to strengthen our warfighting readiness, HMS Agamemnon will play a central role in keeping the United Kingdom safe, contributing to NATO’s collective defence and ensuring we are ready to lead, fight and win,” said General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, Royal Navy First Sea Lord.
Astute-Class Submarines
Apart from HMS Agamemnon, BAE Systems has delivered the first five of seven Astute-class submarines to the Royal Navy: HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, HMS Artful, HMS Audacious, and HMS Anson.
Meanwhile, the company is in the advanced construction phase for the final submarine, HMS Achilles.
“The Astute class submarines are equipped with the latest technologies to silently circumnavigate the globe without surfacing, whilst fulfilling a range of tactical roles for the Royal Navy,” said Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Submarines business.
BAE Systems is also developing the next-generation SSN-AUKUS submarines, which will replace the Astute-class.
