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Armed Forces: Astute Class Submarines

My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Defence (Liam Fox) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement. I am pleased to announce that the Astute Class Submarine Hull 5 is to be named HMS ““Anson””. The boat is expected to join HMS ““Astute””, HMS ““Ambush””, HMS ““Artful”” and HMS ““Audacious”” at the end of 2020. The seven astute-class boats planned for the Royal Navy are the most advanced attack submarines ordered by the Ministry of Defence, with improved firepower and communications, and the ability to operate stealthily for extended periods. The crew also benefit from greatly improved accommodation and facilities. The boats will undertake a wide range of tasks in support of military operations worldwide