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Type 23 frigate HMS Lancaster was decommissioned in Bahrain earlier this month. Personnel gathered to the mark the end of the frigate’s 34 year career, far exceeding her 18-year projected lifespan.
In recent years, the 4,500 tonne frigate played a vital role in maintaining Operation Kipion - a UK deployment designed to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East.
The Royal Navy’s Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse, who served the ship’s Commanding Officer between 2011 and 2013, said the ship represents many fond memories for him and those who served on the warship.
He added: “HMS Lancaster is approaching the end of her long and distinguished service with the Royal Navy. As she approaches retirement, I would encourage you all to celebrate everything that she has delivered on operation across the world. As our longest serving Type 23 frigate, HMS Lancaster has exceeded the 18 years lifespan she was originally built for, with almost 35 years of outstanding service.”
Here are 26 pictures from the ceremony where the frigate came alongside in Bahrain.
1. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
HMS Lancaster has been officially retired from the Royal Navy fleet in Bahrain after serving in the force for over 34 years. | LPhot E Jones
2. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
HMS Lancaster exceeded her original 18- year lifespan by almost double. | Lt Cdr Roster RN
3. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
During her final three years based in Bahrain, the frigate intercepted seven illegal narcotic cargoes and was the first ship on task in the Red Sea during heightened threat activity in December 2023 | LPhot E Jones
4. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
Known as the Queen's Frigate, HMS Lancaster was sponsored by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with the late Queen visiting the ship on multiple occasions. | Lt Cdr Roster RN