
Royal Navy Unveils New Name for Final Astute-Class Submarine
In a surprising announcement this past Sunday, the Royal Navy revealed a significant change to the name of its final Astute-class submarine. Initially designated as HMS Agincourt, the submarine will now bear the name HMS Achilles, a decision that is bound to stir historical reverence and naval pride. This change, which was approved by King Charles, came as a nod to the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, both of which marked pivotal moments in the Second World War.
The HMS Agincourt was originally named after the famous 1415 Battle of Agincourt, a nod to an iconic chapter in English military history. The Battle of Agincourt saw English forces deliver a resounding victory against the French, making it a historically significant event for the Royal Navy. However, the newly christened HMS Achilles brings a new depth of legacy, as six previous vessels have carried the name, each earning a distinguished battle honour. Notably, the previous HMS Achilles participated in the Battle of the River Plate and the Battle of Okinawa during World War II, acts of bravery that contributed immensely to the reputation of the Royal Navy.
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The decision to rename the submarine also follows discussions that arose in early 2024, when there were concerns about the potential sensitivities surrounding the name Agincourt, particularly regarding its association with the French. These discussions, viewed by some as a response to modern diplomatic sensitivities, were swiftly overshadowed by the rich legacy associated with the name Achilles. The Royal Navy's new choice reflects a tradition of honouring past victories while celebrating the unwavering resolve of its naval forces.
The seventh and final Astute-class submarine, HMS Achilles, will inherit the legacy of these historic ships. The Astute-class, one of the most advanced fleets of nuclear-powered submarines, is designed to replace the Trafalgar-class submarines. This new generation of submarines is capable of performing a variety of critical missions, from intelligence gathering and surveillance to precision strikes. The HMS Achilles, when it joins the fleet, will be equipped with the cutting-edge technology that characterizes the Astute-class submarines, such as its powerful Rolls-Royce PWR 2 nuclear reactor and advanced sonar systems.
Furthermore, the renaming of the submarine highlights the ongoing modernization of the Royal Navy's fleet, as well as its commitment to the preservation of naval heritage. Despite the challenges and debates around the renaming, this shift reflects the Navy’s ability to adapt while maintaining respect for history. As HMS Achilles embarks on its future role within the Royal Navy, it will undoubtedly carry with it a powerful connection to the strength, resilience, and honour that define the United Kingdom's maritime forces.
This name change for the Astute-class submarine is a reflection of both history and forward-thinking strategy, ensuring the legacy of the Royal Navy endures for future generations.
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