(November 15th 2001)
HMS Bulwark Launched
Amphibious Assault Ship HMS Bulwark was launched at 10:22 am today at BAE Systems' Barrow-in-Furness shipyard.
The ceremony was performed by Lady Victoria Walker, wife of General Sir Michael Walker, the Chief of Defence Staff.
As the 18,500-tonne warship entered the water she was saluted by a Royal Navy Sea King helicopter flying overhead. She was then towed into Bucchleugh Dock for outfitting, system installation and commissioning.
The event is likely to be the last traditional launch at Barrow for the forseeable future. Although the yard is to construct the Type 45 Destroyers, these vessels will be lowered into the water using a shiplift.
When Bulwark's sistership HMS Albion was launched by Princess Anne in March this year, visitor numbers were restricted to 5,000 because of the presence of HMS Bulwark on the same slipway. But now Albion has been launched there is greater room on the slipway and BAE hoped as many as 10,000 spectators would view the launch. Shipyard workers were encouraged to bring along their families and local school children were invited to attend. However, in light of the terrorist attacks on America, security in the shipyard was far tighter than when Albion was launched.
Albion and Bulwark will replace HMS Intrepid, retired from service some years ago, and HMS Fearless, currently deployed in the Gulf as part of Britain's contribution to the war against terrorism.
Above: HMS Buwark heads down the slipway. © Crown Copyright.
Above: HMS Buwark enters the water. © Crown Copyright.