(March 1st 2002)
Trafalgar Returns
Nuclear powered submarine HMS Trafalgar returned home to Devonport today following involvement in the war against terror.
Trafalgar was welcomed back by Admiral Sir Alan West, Commander-in-Chief fleet. She entered Plymouth Sound flying the Jolly Roger flag - the skull and crossbones are a symbol of a successful war patrol.
It has emerged that Trafalgar was the first Royal Navy submarine to launch tomahawk cruise missiles against Afghanistan. After the initial attacks she was involved in intelligence gathering and the monitoring of ships in the region.
Trafalgar was in the Middle East as part of Exercise Saif Sareea II, a huge tri-service event held in conjunction with the Armed Forces of Oman. However, following the horrific events of September 11th she was ordered to remain in the region.
Above: A Royal Marine Commando keeps watch as a Trafalgar class submarine arrives at Diego Garcia to embark Tomahawk cruise missiles. Both HMS Trafalgar and HMS Triumph were involved with the initial strikes against Afghanistan © Crown Copyright.
Above: A Tomahawk Land Attack Missile is embarked via the torpedo loading hatch. © Crown Copyright.