Prince William and Princess Kate attended the naming ceremony of HMS Glasgow at BAE Systems' shipyard in Scotstoun, Glasgow today.
The Princess of Wales, who was appointed as the Sponsor of HMS Glasgow in June 2021, played a key role in the ceremony for the state-of-the-art Type 26 anti-submarine frigate.
The ship is designed to provide protection to the UK's nuclear deterrent and aircraft carriers, marking an important addition to the Royal Navy's fleet.
Kate looked beautiful for the ceremony, wearing a £1,850 blue and white dress from Suzannah London - representing the colours of the Scottish flag. She paired this with a similar blue and white hat from Philip Treacy.
Princess Kate and Prince William arrive in Glasgow for historic joint ceremony
Kensington Palace
During the visit, Kate, 43, took part in the traditional naming ceremony by releasing a bottle of whisky, which was broken against the ship's hull. This time-honoured maritime tradition marks the official naming of the vessel.
HMS Glasgow is a Type 26 anti-submarine frigate that will provide crucial protection to the UK's nuclear deterrent and aircraft carriers.
The Princess of Wales was formally appointed as the Sponsor of the vessel in June 2021, establishing her connection with the ship.
Following the ceremony, the Prince and Princess went onboard HMS Glasgow to meet representatives from BAE Systems who had been leading the delivery of the ship.
Princess Kate wore a beautiful dress from Suzannah London in Scotland's flag colours
Kensington Palace
They also met with members of the Royal Navy, who discussed the unique capability the ship will offer once in service.
This visit allowed the royal couple to gain firsthand insight into the sophisticated vessel's features and operational capabilities, as well as to acknowledge the technical expertise involved in its construction.
Kate and William then visited BAE Systems' Shipbuilding Academy to meet apprentices and graduates involved in the maritime industry.
The future King and Queen heard about the shipbuilding and maritime training the students had received, including various craft trades such as fabrication, electrical, sheet metal work, welding, and pipefitting.
Princess Kate was appointed as the Sponsor of HMS Glasgow in June 2021.
Kensington Palace
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Kate and William also met with members of the Royal Navy.
Kensington Palace
Finally, the Prince and Princess met with a cross-section of BAE Systems employees from different backgrounds, trades and skills who had all been involved in building the ship.
They also spent time with members of HMS Glasgow Ship's Company and their families, acknowledging the immense efforts of the local workforce, the commitment of the crew, and the sacrifices made by families of serving personnel.
In 2022, Princess Kate had previously met Royal Navy sailors from HMS Glasgow at Windsor Castle to hear about the ship's progress.
