Final type-45 Destroyer leaves the Clyde

A newly built warship has taken its first step towards handover to the Royal Navy after leaving the yard on the River Clyde where it was built.

The type-45 Destroyer, Duncan, left BAE System’s Scotstoun yard in Glasgow for Portsmouth Naval Base where it will be officially commissioned.

Duncan is the last in a 13-year, six-ship contract with the MoD. The other Destroyers are called Diamond, Daring, Dauntless, Dragon and Defender and the fleet will serve the Navy until 2040.

The warship was due to leave last week but this was postponed because of technical problems.

Union leaders said the departure highlights the importance of partnership between shipyards across the UK.

Jim Moohan, chair of the Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions and GMB Scotland senior organiser, said: “Immense credit is given to BAE Systems, the employees and the trade unions for total commitment. The urgent requirement for change was not lost on anyone involved during the early years of 2000.

“The flexibility, interchange ability and transfer of labour between the yards were recognised and vital for job security and continuity. The final part of the jigsaw and the vision for the future was and remains political parties coming together as one on behalf of the few remaining yards, with survival being the aim.”