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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.
9. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
HMS Lancaster was the first ship on task in the Red Sea during heightened threat activity in December 2023, and completed numerous narcotics seizures totalling around £150 million. | LPhot E Jones
10. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
HMS Lancaster's most recent drug bust saw Royal Marines snipers disabling a fast boat from the ship's Wildcat helicopter. | LPhot E Jones
11. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
For her final arrival at the UK Naval Support Facility, Lancaster was joined by Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse, who commanded the ship between 2011 and 2013, and the Royal Navy's senior officer in the Middle East, UK Maritime Component Commander Commodore Ben Aldous. | LPhot E Jones
12. HMS Lancaster decommissioning ceremony
The final plans for HMS Lancaster are to be confirmed and the majority of her crew will be able to return home for Christmas. | LPhot E Jones