Plymouth put on a proud show for HMS Triumph, returning home for the very last time in the amphitheatre of the Sound to be decommissioned in early 2025.
The Sound was sealed off from other local shipping, and it was an amazing spectacle from the city’s maritime community, especially Serco Group tugs that sprayed water cannons with police boats escorting the last of the Trafalgar class submarines into HMNB Devonport.
HMS Triumph made its final voyage from Scotland, where Serco tugboats once again used water cannons, and navy personnel waved farewell to the Triumph after a distinguished career to the nation over many decades.
Triumph flew her decommissioning pennant and was escorted by over nine vessels as she entered Plymouth Sound. Many people were watching the Triumph on our live streaming webcam as she sailed across the Hoe—we even got a cheeky wave for the camera.
Commander Aaron Williams, HMS Triumph’s Commanding Officer, said: “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.
“And while this chapter of HMS Triumph’s story ends, her spirit will endure in the memories of all who served aboard her and in the gratitude of the nations she helped protect. 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,” he said.
The last of the Cold War warriors will be decommissioned at Devonport next year, with the new Astute-class attack submarines taking over the next baton.
The Astute-class submarines are the largest, most advanced, and most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy and consist of HMS Astute, Ambush, Artful, Audacious, and Anson, which are all currently in service and operating from HM Naval Base Clyde.
A further two boats are under construction at BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness.
