The Prince of Wales has described a new warship as a "hell of a piece of kit" that "screams UK power" following its official naming ceremony.
The comments came after his wife, the Princess of Wales, christened HMS Glasgow on the banks of the River Clyde.
The couple attended the traditional ceremony at BAE Systems' shipyard in Scotstoun, Glasgow, where they later chatted with employees and members of the ship's company, expressing admiration for the vessel's scale and advanced technology.
The Princess smashed a bottle of local Scottish whisky into the hull of HMS Glasgow during the ceremony.
The Prince of Wales has described a new warship as a "hell of a piece of kit" that "screams UK power" following its official naming ceremony.
PA
Standing before a crowd of several hundred BAE employees, their families and the 45-strong ship's company, she said: "I name this ship HMS Glasgow, may God bless her and all who sail on her".
She then pressed a small red "launch" button to release the bottle of exclusive single malt whisky made by the nearby Clydeside Distillery.
This ceremonial act is traditionally believed to bring good luck and fortune to the vessel and its crew.
HMS Glasgow is the first of eight planned Type 26 frigates, designed to provide protection to the UK's nuclear deterrent and aircraft carriers.
The couple attended the traditional ceremony at BAE Systems' shipyard in Scotstoun, Glasgow, where they later chatted with employees and members of the ship's company, expressing admiration for the vessel's scale and advanced technology.
PA
The 8,000-tonne warship features state-of-the-art technology, including the Sea Ceptor anti-air missile system, a 5-inch naval gun, and the capability to carry both Wildcat and Merlin helicopters.
The vessel represents cutting-edge maritime defence technology, with its anti-submarine capabilities making it a significant addition to the Royal Navy's fleet.
The Princess was equally impressed by the vessel, admitting she had been stunned by its sheer size and describing the state-of-the-art technology and 3D animations as "very James Bond".
"It's a really proud moment for the UK but particularly, Glasgow, because there's such international interest," she said.
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Kate, who wore a navy dress by Suzannah London and a bespoke ship-inspired brooch, was named sponsor of the 8,000-tonne warship in June 2021.
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Kate, who wore a navy dress by Suzannah London and a bespoke ship-inspired brooch, was named sponsor of the 8,000-tonne warship in June 2021.
She is said to hold "a real interest" in the ship "and in the lives of those who will serve onboard".
The construction of the eight Type 26 frigates has sustained 4,000 jobs across Scotland and the wider UK supply chain, highlighting the economic significance of the project.
Upon arrival at the shipyard, the royal couple were greeted by Jacqueline McLaren, Lord Lieutenant of Glasgow, Sir Simon Lister, managing director of BAE Systems Naval Ships, and Cdr Phil Burgess, senior naval officer on HMS Glasgow.
The Princess's first reaction upon seeing the vessel was enthusiastic, as she remarked: "It's so great to see her, she's fantastic."
