In a significant development, the Princess of Wales, Kate, has taken on the role of sponsor for the 21st-century warship, HMS Glasgow, which is currently under construction.
This prestigious role was approved by Queen Elizabeth II in June 2021.
Dressed in a navy suit and white blouse, Kate met with the staff from the Royal Navy Ships Company of HMS Glasgow at Windsor Castle on Thursday.
As the sponsor of the City Class Type 26 frigate, Kate engaged in conversations with numerous sailors to discuss the progress of the ship’s construction and gain insights into life in the Royal Navy.
The Princess of Wales was seen smiling and actively participating in discussions during her audience with the crew.
Capturing the momentous occasion, pictures of Kate’s interaction with the Royal Navy staff were shared on her and Prince William’s personal Twitter account.
The accompanying caption read, “A pleasure to meet some of the Royal Navy Ships Company of HMS Glasgow, learning more about their roles and what’s next on the route to getting her in the water.”
These images showcased Kate’s enthusiasm as she engaged in conversation with the crew members.
The construction of HMS Glasgow, the first frigate of the new generation City Class, is taking place alongside the River Clyde in Glasgow.
The ship’s flight deck will have the capacity to accommodate helicopters as large as the RAF’s Chinooks.
Additionally, it will feature a versatile loading bay capable of swiftly accommodating and deploying vessels, vehicles, and containers, as stated on the Royal Navy’s website.
With a crew capacity of 161 personnel, HMS Glasgow is being developed as an anti-submarine warfare vessel.
Once deployed, HMS Glasgow will play a crucial role in safeguarding the British Army’s nuclear deterrent and aircraft carriers.
It is one of three ships currently being constructed at the shipyard on the banks of the River Clyde, with the other two being HMS Cardiff and HMS Belfast.
These frigates will be stationed at the Devonport Naval Base in Plymouth.
During a visit to the shipyard last year, the Prince of Wales expressed his delight at the appointment of his wife, Catherine, as the sponsor of the magnificent vessel taking shape outside HMS Glasgow.