The Royal Navy's HMS Vengeance has returned to HM Naval Base Clyde after completing a record 217 days submerged on patrol, the longest deployment for a British vessel. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting welcomed the crew, acknowledging the increased duration of patrols due to a shortage of operational submarines.
The Vanguard-class submarines, which carry Trident nuclear missiles, have seen their typical patrol lengths extend from three months to six or more in recent years. This shift raises concerns about crew welfare and operational readiness as the fleet ages and undergoes maintenance.