Portland Spy Case.
'ROMER' Committee Report on Naval security
published (June).
Department of Naval Security set up.
Manpower of 100,000 with recruiting target
of 7,500.
200 ships in operational service and about the same number
held in Reserve.
110 ships transferred to Commonwealth countries since 1945.
Speculation over replacement of aging carriers continued
after First Lord statement.
Costs of modernisation and the poor
selections still under criticism. Examples HMS
SWIFTSURE and HMS GRAVELINES
Delays in start of refits and modernisations HMS
TRIUMPH,
HMS CAMBRIAN and HMS MULL OF KINTYRE
Empress State Building under construction in Fulham to
replace Queen Anne's Mansions
Commons Select Committee reported costs of Admiralty
organisation but Fleet strength reduced
Hydrographic Department completed tidal survey work on SW
England coasts.
Officers
* RNC Dartmouth History articles.
Admirals total of 83 to be reduced to 72 by 1962 with 144
major warships in service
Direct recruitment of university graduates into Engineering Branch
announced.
Ratings
Re-engagement level 63% (12 year) and 40% (7 years).
Junior entries expected to represent about a third of new
intake.
Centralised Drafting System improvements becoming evident
but shortages continue to present anomalies.
Proposal to reintroduce Warrant Rank turned down.
Introduction of joint messes for WRNS and
RN ratings in shore establishments to be investigated.
Control Artificer (Weapons) Branch of ratings established.
Ships
SONAR Type 193 in production following its satisfactory
development TRIALS in HMS SHOULTON
(See 1959).
Fleet Maintenance Units set up in the three Home Dockyards
and in Malta.
First centralised air conditioning plants in use in frigate
to replace individual units.
Ship/Ship variant of SEASLUG Guided Weapon System to be
developed after completion of final trials in
HMS GIRDLENESS.
Two more GM Destroyers to be ordered.
HMS ASHANTI commissioned and first frigate designed to
operate a helicopter, but not an outstanding success.
Trials of new propulsion equipment revealed various problem
and delayed deployment of TRIBAL Class in Middle East.
* BRITANNIA article (July).
HMS EAGLE to be fitted with new Action Data System to assist
in processing information
Fleet deployment of HMS LION delayed by gunnery and
propulsion machinery problems. 6" armament to be modified.
Conversion of HMS
MANXMAN for use as support ship in hand.
HMS ST BRIDES BAY paid off after 16 years continuous
overseas service
HMS
TRIUMPH conversion for use as a maintenance
ship not yet begun.
HMS RECLAIM carried out experimental work to check
decompression tables.
HMS VICTORIOUS spent 222 delays at sea out of 333 on return
to Britain having steamed 63,000 miles.
HMS FALMOUTH involved in collision with an RFA
(December, in English Channel).
Submarines
Study of possibility of use of POLARIS
nuclear weapon in submarines being studied.
HMS FINWHALE carried out 28 day patrol, some of which was
under the Arctic Icecap. HMS AMPHION used as Communications Link to FOSM.
Modernisation of HMS
MAIDSTONE for support of nuclear
submarines in hand.
US submarine tender USS PROTEUS arrived in Holy Loch for
support of US Navy POLARIS submarines,
Naval Aviation
BUCCANEER Aircraft Trials Unit formed.
Deck Landing Projector Sight (DPLS) and
Height Indicator (HILO) to replace Mirror Sight. HILO trials carried out
in HMS ALBION for 10 months.
Home Station
A/S Frigate Squadron to be based at
Londonderry. HMS UNDAUNTED as Capt (F)
Nore Command, established in 1752,
closed with civic ceremony at Chatham.
RN Hospital closed but RN Barracks had been in use since
1958 as Supply School previously as HMS CERES (Ex DEMETRIUS) at
Wetherby.
First two CASTLE Class frigates turned over to Air Ministry
for use as Weather Ships.
RN
Minewatching Service to be
expanded to assist in convoy assembly during wartime.
Torpedo Range at Stokes Boy closed.
Two ratings from HMS JUTLAND in court in
Dunfermline for walking across Catwalk of new Forth Road
Bridge.
HMS CARRON carried out Foul Weather trials in Atlantic
including use of new Life Raft and survival suits.
HMS RECLAIM carried out experimental deep diving trials to
check accuracy of decompression tables
HMS TROUBRIDGE and HMS WOTTON escorted trawler into Aberdeen
after incident with Danish frigate off Faeroes.
Foreign Stations
Coastal Minesweepers carried out minesweeping operations off
Borneo coasts because of the amount of shipping
associated with export of new timber
trade cargoes.
Increase in naval deployments in Far East to counter
Indonesian threat and increase in piracy.
Labuan proposed as base for RN after new Malaysian
Federation formed.
Extensive RN deployments carried out to assist defence of
Kuwait against threatened invasion by Iraq
Operation VANTAGE. Value of RFA support
and use of Commando Carrier clearly established.
Requirement to provide patrols off Borneo to suppress piracy
fully recognised
Sales cruise by HMS LION and other ships including
RFA's visited South American ports
Underground fuel depot being built in
Malta for NATO use.
HMS BULWARK took part in Anglo-US amphibious exercise in
North Borneo.
HMS CENTAUR and HMS
VICTORIOUS provided help after flooding
in Kenya.
HMS LEOPARD visited Luanda, and later sent to Tristan
da Cunha after volcanic eruption.
HMS Frigates LOCH ALVIE, LOCH FYNE and LOCH RUTHVEN
(right - Navy Photos/Bryan Woodford) assisted
with major fire fighting on board
ss DARA in
Persian Gulf
HMS
OWEN landed party on Martin
Vaz
(SE of Rio de Janeiro) during Atlantic oceanographic survey
HMS RHYL diverted to stand-by at Goa after Indian invasion.
HMS ROTHESAY and HMS ULSTER deployed to follow 'hijacked'
Portuguese liner SANTA MARIA in Caribbean.
*HMS ST ANGELO article.
HMS STUBBINGTON and SEA SALVOR towed Norwegian tanker
BERGEHUS to Malta after explosion
HMS TROUBRIDGE, HMS LONDONDERRY and HMS VIDAL assisted in
relief work in Belize after hurricane.
HMS
VICTORIOUS visited Simons Town.
1 9 6 2
Administration
Amphibious Warfare Headquarters to be replaced by Joint
Services Staff.
Closures announced included Royal
Victualling
Yard at Deptford, London
CANMORE Committee criticised the under utilisation of
troopships and the unnecessary build of two more.
Manpower 100,000.
Recruiting requirement 7,900. Last
year 25% were school leavers.
Re-engagements (12 year) 65%
Manning shortages evident in some ships in
Home waters.
37,000 serving afloat out of total trained manpower of
86,970.
New Pay Code introduced but payable in two
annual instalments.
RFA capability increased by addition of modem tankers and
cargo ships.
SABA equipment available for shallow water
divers.
SEA DART Surface/Air anti-aircraft missile development
announced.
Vassall spy trial.
Officers
Low power nuclear reactor to be fitted at
RNC Greenwich.
Seamen Branch Supplementary List requirement for 1961 met.
Shortage of Medical and Instructor Officers
because of ending of National Service.
Shortfall in Britannia Royal Naval Collage entry due to the
higher educational standard now required.
Ratings
Punishment scales for leave breaking increased.
Senior ratings permitted to rejoin for additional 5 years
within 3 years of date of completion of service.
Ships
First Amphibious Assault Ship ordered.
Four BATTLE Class destroyers to be
modified for use as radar pickets and fitted with SEACAT missiles.
Malicious damaged reported in HMS EAGLE, HMS ASHANTI and HMS
CARRON.
Requirement for new Fleet Aircraft Carrier forecast.
New Test Tank completed at Admiralty Experimental
Establishment, Haslar, Gosport
for future research involving metals.
HMS ALBION commissioned as Commando Carrier.
HMS ASHANTI defective gas turbine blades made necessary
return from demonstration visits to USA and Canada. Hull strengthening also
found to be required in this new Class of Frigate.
HMS
BELFAST and HMS
BERMUDA Paid-off.
New GW Destroyer HMS DEVONSHIRE carried out first SEASLUG
firings from an operational ship.
Conversion of HMS TRIUMPH for use a Maintenance Support Ship
still not started.
Submarines
Action Data Automation System to be introduced.
Final stages of installation of Nuclear
Plant being completed at Dounreay.
Plan to sell WW2 HMS SERAPH to USA failed. This submarine
had taken US General to meeting in Algeria before allied landings in North
Africa.
POLARIS Agreement signed in Bermuda to enable missiles to be
obtained from US Navy.
HMS DREADNOUGHT (right - NavyP hotos/David
Downey) to be fitted with Inertial
Navigation System (SINS). Sea trials of SINS to begin
in December.
HMS TIPTOE carried cut Free Ascent Escape Trials from depth
of 260 feet off Malta.
HMS VALIANT, first British designed nuclear submarine laid
down (January).
HMS WARSPITE second Fleet submarine ordered.
Naval Aviation
Anti-submarine version of WESSEX helicopter
to be introduced for use in Carriers and GM Destroyers.
HMS HARRIER, Air Direction and Meteorology School at
Kete, Pembroke closed.
Helicopter from HMS HERMES crashed off Wales killing Lord
Windlesham and an RAF officer.
Queen's Commendation awarded to SCIMITAR pilot who landed
safely on HMS HERMES after bird had shattered the canopy of aircraft.
Study of Vertical Take-off and Landing
aircraft (VTDL) in hand. without any commitment
for RN use.
Troop carrying version of WESSEX to be
used in Commando Carriers.
1,000 BULLPUP missiles to be bought from
USA for use in BUCCANEER aircraft.
HMS VICTORIOUS carried out 'Cross Deck' operations with
French aircraft carrier CLEMENCEAU.
Home Waters
International mine clearance operations planned to start in
1963 after two mercantiles had been mined off Dutch
coast.
HMS ARK ROYAL ran aground during entry into Devonport.
HMS BATTLEAXE had to be scrapped after collision with HMS
URSA in Clyde estuary.
Burst steam pipe in HMS CENTAUR caused 5 fatalities.
RFA GREEN RANGER ran aground in Bristol Channel and became a
totallLoss.
HMS GIRDLENESS transferred to Reserve Fleet at
Rosyth for use as Living Ship. SEASLUG Guided Missile
trials could be carried out in HMS DEVONSHIRE.
HMS REPTON sent to escort Russian surveillance ship away
from NATO Exercise in Channel.
HMS SHOULTON
minehunting equipment
used to locate crashed aircraft in Moray Firth and North Sea.
HMS UNICORN (Hulk) used as RNVR
Headquarters Ship at Dundee towed away to breakers.
Foreign Stations
Management of Malta Dockyard by CH Bailey found not to be
commercially viable.
Deployments made by Far East Stations ships after Confrontation
began with Indonesia (KONFRONTASI). HMS MARYTON, HMS CHAWTON, HMS LOCH INSH and
HMS CAESAR deployed against piracy off Borneo.
Expansion of Far East Fleet continued and Joint Services
Command set up at Singapore.
Frigates of Dartmouth Training Squadron including HMS
TROUBRIDGE provided aid to the civil authorities during General Strike and
rioting in British Guiana.
Support facilities in Malta to be reduced to Forward Supply
only.
RN Wireless Station (HMS MAURITIUS) opened in Mauritius as
replacement for Ceylon facilities.
Russian build-up of missiles In Cuba.
HMS ALBION involved in collision with tug at Aden killing
two of the tug crew.
HMS
COOK reported record depth sounding in Mindanao Trench. (Note:
This was later found to be in error.)
HMS LOCH FADA sent to Maldives after political unrest.
Relieved by HMS CASSANDRA.
HMS LOCH RUTHVEN seized dhow carrying ammunition and a rebel
leader off Oman
HMS LION and HMS LONDONDERRY diverted to assist Italian
liner BIANCA when she caught fire off Granada. HMS LONDONDERRY towed mercantile
clear of harbour entrance.
HMS
OWEN completed Antarctic survey and took part in
International Oceanographic Year investigations in Indian Ocean.
1963
Administration
Chief Staff Officer (Technical) introduced for service on
staff of CinC Home Fleet. This officer would be
responsible for all matters associated with Engineering.
Civilian engineers in Royal Dockyards and in Admiralty
Departments to be known generically as The Naval Engineering Service (RNES)
Individual Class Authorities for types of ship replaced by
The Ship Maintenance Authority.
Combined Ministry of Defence proposed to be established from
1964 to replace Admiralty, War Office and Air Ministry.
Director of Fleet Maintenance appointed in Admiralty at Flag
Rank.
Evaluation trial to be carried out on Australian designed anti-submarine
weapon (IKARA).
Maintenance Scheme (‘Guinea Pig’) introduced and trial to be
carried out in selected ships. HMS LOWESTOFT waesone
of those selected.
'Hard Tack' biscuits removed from
Victualling
Stores List as part of emergency or action rations.
Impact of POLARIS Programme Manning requirements on
distribution of naval manpower resulted in offer of extension of existing 22
Year Engagements.
Manpower intake target 7,000.
53% of
ratings serving at sea. Recruiting and retention continues to present
problems.
NATO proposal to
try 'Multi-national Manning’ of a surface
ship agreed. Later, ships of different NATO navies were deployed as a Task Force.
Navy Works Department in Royal Dockyards abolished and
replaced by Ministry of Public Building and Works.
The ‘Profumo’
affair.
RN Careers Service to replace Recruiting Service.
RN Mission to Libya established and training of personnel in
UK provided
Royal Navy Examination Service (RNXS) replaced the RN Mine
Watching Servioe.
Routine Orders ('Pipes') no longer in use in some ships.
Security arrangements intensified.
All ships and Establishments to have a
Security Officer
Title ASDIC for underwater detection equipment officially
replaced by SONAR. This title has been used in US Navy for many years.
Officers
Instructor Branch to allow recruitment of
suitably qualified ratings.
Medical Scholarships introduced to attract doctors whilst
training.
Recruitment of Electrical Officers by Direct Entry of
Graduates from Industry began.
Shortfall in Britannia RNC entries announced, although less
then in 1961-2.
Supplementary List Fixed Wing aircrew and
Electrical Branch requirements not being met.
Ratings
Drafting problems due to POLARIS requirements recognised
Retirement after 32 years service with increased pension
announced.
Use of Crossed Flags Badge for Signal Branch ratings discontinued.
53% ratings now serving at sea.
Ships
Boiler flash-back in HMS LION injured three ratings.
Coastal Minesweepers to be deployed in
Persian Gulf and four to be kept at Aden in Reserve.
Escort Squadrons composed of destroyers and frigates
introduced.
First Landing Ship (Logistics)
LSL SIR LANCELOT
launched (right - sister ship, now RFA SIR PERCIVALE at the time of
the 1982 Falklands War. No enlargement) .
Modern, commercial design communications equipment (COMIST)
using new techniques introduced.
Possible sabotage reported in HMS DIAMOND.
(For
some of the possible background to these incidents - see
"Some Aspects of
Officer/Rating Relationships in the Royal Navy 1941-1972")
HMS BARROSA involved in boarding incident off Borneo.
HMS BLAKE placed in reserve after refit. Reason other than
lack of manpower is obscure
HMS CENTAUR deployed as relief for HMS ARK ROYAL East of
Suez without planned period in Hone waters.
Search for missing French submarine by HMS CENTAUR called
off when sighted by RAF aircraft.
HMS
RECLAIM to be fitted with De-compression
Chamber to allow diving operations down to 1,000 feet. Deep diving trials
carried out off Canary Islands.
HMS TIGER weapon maintenance allowed
to
run down because of intended refit.
HMS LOWESTOFT and HMS BERWICK demonstrated RN anti-submarlne procedures to US Navy.
Five Fast Patrol Boats paid-off leaving only HMS BRAVE
BORDERER and HMS BRAVE SWORDSMAN in service
Submarines
Building of Royal Navy Armaments Depot (RNAD) at
Coulport and Submarine Base for POLARIS submarines in
Faslane announced.
Chief Polaris
Executive appointed to ensure submarine build and weapon support programme is
met on time and within budget. 1,700 personnel with support facilities would be
deployed in Clyde by 1968. POLARIS submarines to have six torpedo tubes with
hydroplanes to be fitted on bow structure. Two separate crews to be used for
these submarines and refits carried out at Rosyth.
Build programmes for new Fleet submarines delayed by
priority given to POLARIS acceptance into service.
US Navy AUTEC Range in Bahamas to be used
by RN submarines.
HMS GRAMPUS and HMS PORPOISE carried out further operations
under Arctic ice pack. See 1961
HMS VALIANT launched at Barrow.
HMS WARSPITE
laid down at Barrow.
Naval Aviation
Assistance provided by helicopters for rescue work after UK
blizzards.
Build of replacement Fleet aircraft carrier CVA1 announced,
and to have VTOL capability.
First VTOL aircraft deck landing trials in HMS ARK ROYAL
Provision of Flotation gear for
helicopters subject to production delays.
Selection of PHANTOM aircraft instead of
P1154 for future naval use subject to dispute.
Poor delivery rate of helicopters. Promise
of availability of WESSEX V in 1963 for use in KONFRONTASI operations not achieved
RNAS Abbotsinch
closure as a Repair Facility. Still to be used as accommodation for ships refitting at
Rosyth.
Safety system using red lighting for
illumination of aircraft carrier superstructure to be introduced.
Trials on new aircraft Ejector Seat carried out
WASP Helicopter not available for HMS LEANDER.
WESSEX 5 Helicopter not available for HMS CENTAUR on
completion of refit.
Home Waters
Inshore Minesweepers brought forward from Reserve for
auxiliary tasks including use by RNXS Mine Clearance.
Operations CLEAR ROAD and CABLE WAY carried out with other
NATO minesweepers in North Sea
11 RNR Division Minesweepers also deployed.
HMS
BELFAST brought forward for service and used to take
cadets and other trainees to Gibraltar.
Foreign Stations
Coastal Minesweepers deployed operationally in Persian Gulf.
Extensive salvage work carried out by HMS BARBAIN, HMS
BARFOIL and HMS DUCHESS to re-float British mercantile in eastern approaches to
Singapore harbour.
KONFRONTASI operations against Indonesian infiltration
increasingly involved RN.
HMS HAMPSHIRE relieved HMS LION.
HMS ALBION sent from Singapore to collect helicopters from
Tobruk.
HMS ALBION assisted in flood relief in addition to
KONFRONTASI tasks.
HMS BARBAIN ordered to leave Indonesian territorial waters
when on passage to assist grounded Indian mercantile.
HMS LONDONDERRY and HMS WHIRLWIND deployed in Bahamas area
to deter anti-Castro activities.
HMS CENTAUR diverted on passage to Far East to assist in
rescue of survivors from the Greek cruise liner LANCONIA which had sunk after catching
fire near Madeira.
HMS
COOK extensively damaged after grounding on coral reef
in Gilbert Islands. Taken in hand locally for extensive
repair work.
HMS
OWEN took part investigations in Indian Ocean as part of
International Oceanographic Year.
1 9 6 4
Administration
Accommodation improvement still not fully implemented.
American emphasis in NATO Council about
British role in Far East.
Supply of Arms to South Africa ended.
Critical Path Analysis Procedures (PERT) to be used in
future ship Royal Dockyard refits as used for POLARIS.
Parliamentary Committee criticised lack of air-conditioning
in HMS BAROSSA despite the fact that she had been recently modernised.
Manpower strength of 98,000 to be
increased to 103,000 because of impact of POLARIS.
Intake in 1963-64: 7,500 with target of 8,000.
Re-engagements 59% (12 Year) and 53% (9
Year).
Ministry of Defence reorganisation implemented. Three
Service Boards replaced. Admiralty Board Title adopted instead of Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty. Defence Council Instructions (Navy) – “DCI
(RN)” replaced Admiralty Fleet Orders (“AFO.”) Foul Anchor Flag of Admiralty
hauled down in Whitehall on 31st March.
Build of New Guided Missile frigate first suggested. (Note:
Later “BRISTOL” Class Destroyers introduced.)
Ships in Commission: 180.
No. of Admirals
77.
SOSUS System to be laid in Atlantic by US Navy.
UK Married Quarters 90% below requirement
UK contribution to Mixed Manning of NATO ships planned to
embark in USS CLAUDE V RICKETTS. Pay comparisons made and eventually Treasury
approval was given to an Allowance. Later RN ships were deployed as part of a
NATO Standing Force.)
12 Mile Fishing Limit introduced for UK.
170 Shore Establishments closed or role reduced since 1955.
Officers
Severe shortfall of Officer Entry
partially due to requirement for two GCE "A" Levels.
Short Service aircrew officers encouraged to sign for
further period.
Some 'Arts' Degree Graduates to be
accepted and 100 Flying Scholarships to be awarded.
Ratings
Increased intake of Artificer Apprentices
to cater for future needs.
Manning of a new Escort Squadron abandoned
because of shortages. Poor Re-engagement of senior technical ratings was
a major reason.
Royal Fleet Reserve Regulations changed.
Some improvements in ship amenities reported in new ships.
Ships
HMS BLAKE to be converted for use to carry
Commandos using helicopters for transfer to shore.
HMS
COOK
(right - Navy Photos) returned to UK to Pay-off after damage due to
grounding in Gilbert Islands.
HMS DIAMOND and HMS DUCHESS collided in Channel.
HMS DUCHESS loaned to RAN to replace HMAS VOYAGER which had
been lost in collision.
Build of new design HYDRA Class Coastal Survey Ships
announced. Commercial build LLOYDS standards to be applied.
HMS ISIS, RNR
Minesweeper visited Paris.
HMS LION and HMS LOWESTOFT collided in Firth of Forth during
departure after Royal opening of Forth Road Bridge.
HMS LOFOTEN commissioned for Anti-submarine Helicopter
Training use.
HMS PROTECTOR to be replaced as Ice Patrol
Ship.
HMS RELENTLESS hit by 0.22 bullet during departure from Cork
after visit.
HMS
VICTORIOUS
recommissioned at
Singapore.
HMS VIDAL wearing Flag of
Hydrographer
of the Navy visited Leningrad.
ALGERINE Class Minesweeper HMS ACUTE held in Reserve used
for Underwater Shock trials.
Submarines
Approval given for order of some equipment
for fifth POLARIS submarine.
Problems at
Dounreay delayed sea
trials in HMS VALIANT.
Training of first RN POLARIS Crews began in USA. Later these
will be carried out at Faslane.
HMS RESOLUTION first POLARIS submarine laid down.(*February)
HMS RENOWN laid down (June).
New
techniques using ultrasonic principals to be used to check Pressure Hull
welding.
Underwater escape tests carried cut in Loch
Fyne from HMS ORPHEUS at depth of 200 feet using new
equipment.
HMS OTTER and HMS NARWHAL completed patrols under Arctic
ice-pack.
Naval Aviation
50th Anniversary of the formation of The Royal Navy Air
Service celebrated attended by HRH The Duke of
Edinburgh. Deliveries of SEA VIXEN and WESSEX V began. .Both
to have guided missile capability. Delivery for new
ships slow.
Restriction in helicopter flying time made in Hone waters
because of shortage of spares
Extensive use of helicopters in support of
KONFRONTASI military operations in Borneo. GANNET aircraft from HMS
VICTORIOUS also used for radar surveillance
Modernisation of HMS EAGLE cost £31M, an overspend of £12M.
PHANTOM/P1154 selection problems not resolved.
BUCCANEER aircraft design problem evident after engine
failure.
Helicopter Support Ship HMS ENGADINE ordered.
Home Waters
12 mile Fishing Limit Agreement signed and
included exclusive use by British vessels of the first six miles. Fishery
Protection Squadron activities increased to avoid clashes with Polish and East
German trawlers.
NATO Annual exercise TEAM WORK included 64 RN ships
(Destroyers and below.)
Only 10% of required number of Married
Quarters available.
HMS DIAMOND and HMS SALISBURY in collision in Channel when
steaming close together.
HMS MALCOLM embarked scientist for survey around new volcano
off Iceland,
HMS LONDON paid visit to Capital.
Foreign Stations
Service Families offered flights to Singapore on Charter
aircraft at 'reduced’ cost of £96. (This expense unlikely to
be very attractive.)
Habitability of ships criticised by
Parliamentary Committee.
Increased involvement by RN, RAN and RNZN
in Borneo KONFRONTASI support. Naval Party KILO formed for
Inshore patrol. Guardship provided
at Tawau. Several Incidents
involving Coastal Minesweepers. Far East Fleet
strength stronger than at any time since 1953. Patrols Instituted in
Malacca Straits to intercept Indonesian infiltration craft
‘Unaccompanied’ foreign service to be kept
to 12 months maximum separation.
HMS ANZIO involved in attempt to tow tanker ESSO NORWAY in
Indian Ocean.
HMS AUSONIA and HMS SURPRISE withdrawn
from Malta.
HMS BULWARK to relieve HMS ALBION in Far
East and to be refitted.
Banyan Party seized by Chinese near Hong Kong but later
released.
HMS
VICTORIOUS, HMS CAESAR and HMS CAVENDISH visited
Australia. On return passage joined by HMS HAMPSHIRE, HMS BERWICK and HMS DIDO
passed through Sunda Strait together which caused some concern in
Indonesia.
HMS CENTAUR and other ships diverted to Zanzibar after
Sultan deposed. Later ships were
deployed at Dar-es-Salaam and also supported military
operations in Aden.
HMS ROTHESAY and HMS WHIRLWIND deployed for patrol off
Bahamas to intercept illegal traffic from Cuba.
1 9 6 5
Administration
Joint Anti-submarine School at Londonderry closed.
Required manpower strength of 91,078 to
increase to 93,550 by Aprl 1966. 75% of entry
under 17and 9,000 a year needed.
Mixed national manning experiment of NATO warships failed.
Multi-national MATCHMAKER Squadron to be formed with HMS LEANDER as
the RN contribution.
MOD Committee set up to examine the most efficient and
economic use of aircraft.
Naval strength required to maintain an ‘East of Suez’
presence questioned in Parliament.
New Pay Review arrangement proposed including consideration
of an "X” Factor. “X” Factor to take account of armed service restrictions.
17% increase needed but 3% offered.
Part of IKARA weapon development work to be done in UK.
RN Volunteer Supplementary Reserve (RNVSR) to be disbanded.
Saturation Diving Display given to Press.
Unified Intelligence Staff to be created within Ministry of
Defence with all three armed services represented
Officers
10% of RN aircrew resigned Commissions because of
uncertainty about the future of Naval Aviation.
15% shortage of Electrical officers admitted in Parliament.
Britannia RN College Cadet annual entry of 229 met
requirement for first time since 1957.
Difficulty in getting sufficient pilots
for Fixed Wing and Helicopter aircraft. 68 Plying Scholarships awarded
and 100 available this year. Intensive Recruiting campaign launched.
Four officers accepted for Degree courses at Cambridge University.
University Cadetships Scheme to be started to improve Graduate intake.
Ratings
New entry requirement still not met.
1,000 shortfall.
Re-engagements still insufficient. Separation
quoted as main cause. Bonus payments for
skilled ratings in view of 19% Shortage
Bridging Loan Scheme introduced to assist House purchase. 1,000 'Maisonette' type Married Quarters to
be built in Gosport
Sick Berth Attendant rating title to be
changed to Medical Attendant or Medical Technician.
Ships
Boiler Room fire in HMS ARK ROYAL at
Singapore.
Coastal Minesweepers used to deal with oil pollution from
tanker following collision near Beachy Head.
Enquiry into defects delayed completion of HMS HAMPSHIRE
refit.
HMS FEARLESS
(right - MOD. No enlargement) commissioned and Amphibious Warfare Squadron to
be disbanded.
HMS INTREPID
build completion
delayed by need to transfer shipyard labour to liner QUEEN ELIZABETH.
HMS RECLAIM carried out underwater workshop trials off
Toulon.
HMS TRIUMPH commissioned for use as Maintenance Ship at
Singapore. Modernisation costs £10.25M.
Some equipment not ready for
use. Early sailing to take
up service incurred significant expenses.
Submarines
HM Dockyard Chatham to be developed for refit of nuclear
'Hunter-Killer' submarines.
Commanding Officers for the two crews in
HMS RESOLUTION appointed.
First RN POLARIS patrol to be in 1968.
Other three nuclear
submarines to be ready at 6 month intervals. Fifth POLARIS build
cancelled. Dounreay
problems resolved and plant 'critical'
Further Escape trials carried out at 500 feet depth by HMS
ORPHEUS off Malta.
Manually powered Carbon Dioxide Absorption Unit being
developed for emergency use
Build completion of HMS VALIANT, first all British nuclear
submarines, delayed by further problems. Two months added to existing 12 month overrun.
First nuclear powered Fleet submarine HMS CHURCHILL ordered.
HMS DREADNOUGHT bulkhead cracks discovered.
Refit date brought forward.
RN officer appointed to advise British Delegation in USA
during talks on allied nuclear forces.
Naval Aviation
Aircrew shortage 20%.
HMS ARK ROYAL to operate BUCCANEER
aircraft on completion of refit. BUCCANEER aircraft flew non-step from
Newfoundland to Lossiemouth.
First WESSEX V helicopters taken to Far
East in HMS ALBION.
PHANTOM aircraft order for RN confirmed as 60 aircraft. Some
fallacious opinion voiced that RAF use of this type would obviate need for
deployment of Carrier East of Suez.
RNAS
Halfar, Malta turned over to
RAF.
Shortage of WESSEX spares due to take over of Napier Company
by Rolls Royce. HMS BULWARK and HMS KENT both affected.
Home Waters
Royal Review in Clyde.
Increased Plenary Protection Squadron activity
in Irish Sea.
Minesweepers in Home waters Paid-off to provide crews for
Coastal Minesweepers in Far East.
Foreign Stations
Patrol of Bahamas now permanent feature. HMS DIAMOND
involved in rescue work and interceptions.
Beira Patrol instituted off East African coast after
Rhodesian Unilateral Declaration of Independence
Flag Officer, Flotillas appointment merged with
CinC Mediterranean.
Frigates and Amphibious Squadron ships diverted from
exercise to take troops to Bahrein.
Increased RN involvement at Aden. HMS
EAGLE, HMS LOWESTOFT and two RFA sent from Mediterranean.
KONFRONTASI operations in Borneo continued with heavy RN
participation. Two officers killed and 11 ratings injured. Honours awarded to
RN personal. Bomb exploded on Liberian mercantile OCEANIC PRIDE in Singapore
Roads. HMS WILKESTON intercepted craft which my have been used. Curfew imposed
on movements and boom laid to improve safety of ships
against attack by small craft. Naval Party KILO disbanded when duty taken over
by Malaysian Police. Hovercraft used for transport and patrol duties. Patrol
mileage exceeded 1,000,000. 1,400 raiders captured.
No ship deployed on South Atlantic and South Africa Station.
RNR Coastal Minesweepers sent to West Indies for eight weeks
to carry cut patrol duty.
Singapore dockyard rundown commenced. Proposal made to set
up base at Fremantle, Australia in place of Singapore facilities.
USA to set up base at Diego Garcia in
Indian Ocean after visit in 1964.
HMS ALBION diverted to pick up Russian seaman from tanker
and take him to Seychelles. Later, ship went to Mombasa in case of political
unrest.
HMS BASTION officer rescued some of crew from disabled Dhow
in Persian Gulf.
HMS EAGLE provided patrol of air apace over Tanzania because
of Rhodesian threat after UDI
HMS HARTLAND POINT replaced HMS
WOODBRIDGE HAVEN at
Singapore as Minesweeper Support Ship.
HMS PROTECTOR gave assistance at
Valpariso
after earthquake in Peru.
HMS ROTHESAY and HMS WHIRLWIND stood by in Bermuda to
provide aid after industrial unrest.
1 9 6 6
Administration
CinC Home Fleet Title abolished.
Closure of Naval Propellant factory at
Caerwent impending.
Parliamentary query about cost of deploying RAF aircraft in
Zambia compared with use of an Aircraft Carrier.
Discussions with Australia regarding replacement of
Singapore Base continued.
Dutch involvement in development of “3D” radar ended.
Defence Communications Network to be set up to meet needs of
all three services.
F111 use in new aircraft carrier controversy fuelled by
Defence White Paper
First RN Equipment Exhibition held.
Exhibition of Furniture and Fittings used
in Warships held at Portsmouth by Director of Naval Equipment.
First Sea Lord, Admiral David Luce, resigned over aircraft
carrier policy.
Future Fleet Working Party reported cancellation of 5th
POLARIS submarine was needed to ensure availability of Funds. Manpower increase:
98,326 to 99,570 by 1967.
Future responsibility for all procurement
of food and for moorings taken over by MOD (Navy).
New Pay Code introduced and some Pension arrangements
improved.
Naval Presentation Team formed to improve Public Relations
and recruiting. 1st UK tour begun.
MOD directives consequent on Rhodesian UDI issued but not
appreciated by those at sea.
Research and Development investigations in
hand for use of Satellite Communications (SATCOMS). Automatic
Fire Control for main armament and Underwater Noise. Trials on Satellite
Communications equipment (SCOT) carried out by HMS WAKEFUL with UK Station at
Christchuroh, Hampshire. Security risk exposed by training
of Indian Navy officers.
Officers
Aircrew in ships deployed 'East of Suez' to be given Home
Leave half-way through tours.
Aircrew resignations increasing due to
lack of confidence in future of navel aviation. 18 RAF
pilots chosen for transfer. Supplementary List aircrew extending service
to be paid £3,000 Bounty
Special Duties List Officer pensions to be the same as that
for equivalent rank in General List.
No further resignations to be accepted except on medical grounds.
Ratings
Re-engagement and recruiting numbers still
in decline. Only 49% of those completing 12 year service re-engaged but
65% required. Figures for 9 Year Engagements were 50% required but only 21%
attained. Intelligence standards for new recruits for Seaman Branch reduced. Interest
Free Loans for House Purchase made available. Re-engagement Bounty for
completion of 22 years pensionable service doubled to
£750. Shortfall in artificer apprentice intake acute.
Privilege of drinking the ‘Loyal Toast’ whilst seated
extended to Chief and Petty Officers.
Separation Allowance introduced for those away from their families
for over 12 months.
Pay for those promoted to Special Duties list altered to
overcome anomalies and improve the incentive for promotion of young ratings.
Training between 15 and 16 to cease because of
raising of school leaving age to 16.
Ships
Build Contracts for future destroyers and frigates only to
be awarded to Yarrow, Thornycroft and Vickers
shipyards
Hovercraft minesweeping trials
unsatisfactory.
Cost over-run of Type 42 destroyer Build Programme
unofficially recognised.
First Type 82 Destroyer to be named HMS BRISTOL ordered.
Glass reinforced Plastic (GRP) to be used during build of
future Coastal Minesweepers.
Type 14 Frigate HMS EXMOUTH to be converted for trials of
new Gas Turbine propulsion equipment.
HMS INTREPID planned commissioning date not achieved.
Naval Aviation
HMS ARK ROYAL to operate PHANTOM and BUCCANEER aircraft
after refit but not to be have the new CDS Radar Display or Action Data System
equipment.
Design of new Aircraft Carrier CVA1 published prematurely.
Later cancellation caused much disquiet in the naval service at all levels.
Future of Fixed Wing flying now at greater risk.
Extensive use of ship-borne helicopters in Borneo continued.
Crashed BUCCANEER aircraft from HMS
VICTORIOUS recovered
from Channel at depth of 360 feet. Pilot of SEA VIXEN awarded George Medal for
attempt to release his Observer before aircraft hit the sea.
New type of BUCCANEER aircraft carried out endurance trials
with use of 'in flight’ refuelling.
Trials of WESSEX III Helicopter for use in
GM destroyers.
Problems encountered by WESSEX V Helicopters when used in
cold weather conditions.
VTOL aircraft, trial carried out in HMS BULWARK.
Submarines
Faslane Base POLARIS training School opened and given publicity in
National Press.
Delayed announcement of explosion in HMS RORQUAL with 2
fatalities and other casualties
First fatal accident during use of Escape
Tower in HMS DOLPHIN at Gosport.
HMS FORTH to be redeployed at Singapore
after modernisation.
Habitability of "A" Class submarines in Far East
admitted as being unsatisfactory.
Hair-line cracks in HIS DREADNOUGHT and HMS RESOLUTION
rectified at a cost of£150K.
Last OBERON class expected to be in service by 1967.
Mark 24 Torpedo not to be ready for another six years due to
problems encountered during R&D trials.
Slough Compass Observatory to be enlarged to meet
requirements for use of Satellite communications equipment (SINS).
Second nuclear powered Fleet Submarine HMS CONQUEROR
ordered.
Home Waters
Assistance provided to locate sunken German submarine in
North Sea.
Salvage operation for wreck of SHACKLETON aircraft in Moray
Firth. 95% recovered.
Squadron System for identifying groups of same type of
destroyer or frigate abandoned.
Fire on board HMS BLAKE (right - Navy Photos)
during refit.
HMS DEVONSHIRE with
CinC Home
Fleet embarked visited Leningrad.
INVINCIBLE Class announced as the replacement for TIGER
Class cruisers.
HMS TIGER used for UDI conference at Gibraltar.
Foreign Stations
Argentine party landed in Falklands.
Beira patrol requirements continued including extensive use
of RFAs. HMS EAGLE had spent 77 days continuously at
sea when relieved by HMS ARK ROYAL. .HMS PLYMOUTH spent 42 days continuously
under way. HMS BERWICK and HMS PLYMOUTH intercepted tankers.
HMS CARYSFORT deployed in Seychelles during labour dispute
and relieved by HMS MOHAWK.
RNAS SEMBAWANG still in use at Singapore.
RNAS facility at Naga Ket,
Borneo given name of RNAS TAUARI (local bird).
KONFRONTASI support continued until October when Malaya and
Indonesia agreed a Settlement. 70 ships deployed in Far East.
Guardshlp retained at Tawau. HMS
DARTINGTON fired on by shore batteries whilst escorting Malayan craft. Piracy
problems continued throughout year. HMS DEVONSHIRE and HMAS DERWENT rescued
crew of Panamanian ship which had sunk off Sibu.
HMS DIDO assisted in putting down mutiny on British
mercantile SUDBURY HILL in Gulf of Aden.
West Indies patrol activities continued on reduced scale in
order to provide ships for Beira patrol. HMS ROTHESAY and HMS URSA involved in
rescue work. HMS ZEST landed party to help restore electrical power during
strike in Bahamas. HMS DEFENDER deployed at St Vincent as a precaution during
period when political unrest anticipated.
HMS CALTON found British weapons intended for delivery to
friendly Arab states on board Dhow intercepted during patrol in Arabian Sea.
1 9 6 7
Administration
Costs for HMS FIFE and HMS GLAMORGAN caused further
controversy about build contracts.
Defence Sales Organisation established.
Defence Review implied further reductions in spending
despite extent of current deployments. Some families overseas brought home to
save foreign exchange costs.
TEMPLAR Committee reported on Joint Service aircraft and
missile procurement and maintenance.
Civil post of First Lord of the Admiralty abolished.
Further MOD changes. Administrative and Equipment
responsibilities altered.
Trial of new method of ship refitting in Royal Dockyards
introduced. 'Guinea Pig’ ships selected.
Manpower Level 97,050 to be reduced to 88,400 by April 1971.
New operational control of ships introduced. Ships deployed
East of Suez taken over by CinC Eastern Fleet and all
others by CinC Western Fleet, Northwood.
Modernisation of UK Shore Establishments approved.
New Entries 7,100. Re-engagements down to 25%.
No more warship building to be done by Royal Dockyards.
Costs of commercial shipyard builds criticised.
RN Dependants Fund launched.
Sinking of Egyptian EILATH by Israeli missile raised
questions in Parliament about RN Guided Weapon capabilities.
US NATO Atlantic Commander emphasised the need for RN
involvement to meet his requirements.
US to provide satellite facilities for new
UK Satellite Communications system.
Withdrawal from Malaysia and Singapore by mid 1970's
confirmed.
Officers
Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (ACNS), John Adam resigned
over missile policy.
CinC Portsmouth (John Hopkins)
retired early.
Engineer officers to be eligible for CNAA Degree
on completion of Diploma course at RNEC Manaadon.
Disappointing number of Engineering Branch cadets entering
under Dartmouth and Graduate Entry Schemes.
Royal Defence Academy and Royal Defence
College to be established in place of separate establishments.
Ratings
Discharge by Purchase rules amended to include ratings after
3 months initial training for a payment of £20.
Increase in numbers of aircrew qualifying for Helicopter
duties.
Naval Drafting Authority (HMS CENTURION) to move from
Haslemere to Gosport.
Report on Family Welfare completed.
Rowner Married Quarters Estate
completed.
Re-engagement rates still decreasing.
25%
(9 years), 45% (12 years).
* Article on unclaimed RNBT Money in NAVY NEWS.
* Article on Writer Branch in NAVY NEWS.
Ships
Build of Type 82.Destroyers to be discontinued after completion
of HMS BRISTOL.
Danish ship ANITA DAN purchased to replace HMS PROTECTOR for
duty in Antarctic. Later
HMS ENDEAVOUR.
Problems with SEASLUG II Guided Missile control equipment
delayed its full acceptance into service
New SEAWOLF Weapon System to be fitted in new small
frigates. This was not achieved in new
Type 21 Frigates.
HMS ARK ROYAL modernisation began and to remain in service till
Mid 1970's with HMS EAGLE.
HMS BERWICK and HMS LOWESTOFT refitting after 7 years
without major dockyard work.
RNXS craft HMS BIRDHAM damaged by fire off Arran.
HIMS DAMPIER returned to UK to Pay-off.
Part of this passage made under sail to help
steady ship after she lost one of her propellers.
*Article in NAVY NEWS about HMS RELENTLESS.
HMS SLUYS bought by Iran to be modernised in UK and renamed
ARTEMIZ.
HMS YARNTON successfully rode out Cyclone conditions in
Indian Ocean.
HMS
VICTORIOUS paid-off instead of completing refit after
serious fire on board
HMS BULWARK deployed off West Africa as a precaution during
Nigerian civil war.
Submarines
HRH
The Duke of Edinburgh visited
Nuclear Refuelling Plant in HM Dockyard Rosyth.
New escape arrangements with Immersion Suits and using two
Escape Hatches to be introduced.
Last OBERON Class HMS ONYX ordered
from Chatham Dockyard.
HMS NEPTUNE commissioned as Clyde Submarine Base. Queens
Harbour Master to be appointed to control Clyde area shipping movements.
Nuclear Submarine Command facility and
Operator Trainer being built at Faslane.
HMS RENOWN launched in February and HMS REPULSE in November.
HMS RESOLUTION commissioned in October.
HMS CHURCHILL and HMS CONQUEROR Nuclear Fleet submarines
laid down. Revised build instructions issued after pipe-work
design problems in HMS DREADNOUGHT.
HMS COURAGEOUS, third Nuclear Powered Fleet submarine
ordered. First batch of 5 Fleet Nuclear Powered submarines without POLARIS
missile fit, generically VALIANT Class
HMS VALIANT completed underwater passage from Singapore to
UK.
Naval Aviation
Contract negotiations in hand for purchase of two medium
sized Hovercraft. Only one was purchased
First VTOL landing by HARRIER aircraft (right -
around the time of the 1982 Falklands War, MOD. No enlargement) on
HMS BULWARK.
WASP Helicopter to be replaced by new design WG13.
Later named LYNX.
WESSEX III Anti-Submarine Helicopter entered service.
Home Waters
* Article on Flag Officer Sea Training in NAVY NEWS.
Closure of HMS LOCHINVAR at Port Edgar
forecast. Land sale problems aired in Parliament.
Tanker TORREY CANYON ran aground off Scillies and caused
extensive pollution. Significant RN involvement in aftermath and
clear-up operations.
Milford Haven dredging operation required for removal of
shells dumped since 1890's.
Vosper built patrol craft chartered as no suitable RN vessel
available for use during exercises.
HMS WARRIOR commissioned at Northwood as
CinC
Western Fleet headquarters.
Whitehall Communication facilities modernised in line with
current Fleet changes.
Foreign Stations
Appointment of
CinC
Mediterranean abolished on 5th June.
Deployments increased to counter and carry out surveillance
of Russian activities.
HMS HARDY and HMS GRAFTON deployed from Home waters.
HMS
VICTORIOUS retained whilst on passage to Far East
Closure of base at Aden forecast.
and use of Flag Officer Middle East to be abolished. Facilities
at Mombasa improved. HMS FEARLESS took part in support of operations against
rebels at Aden. Withdrawal operations at Aden commenced
and to be completed in January 1968. 25 ships involved.
Beira patrol still being maintained. HMS MINERVA fired shot
across bows of French tanker which continued passage.
RN RFA's
supplied fuel to US warships on passage to Vietnam.
HMS AJAX rescued crew of RAF SHACKLETON aircraft in Indian
Ocean
Frigate on South Africa and South Atlantic
Station withdrawn.
HMS AMBROSE, Submarine base at Halifax, Canada closed.
Crest of Inshore Squadron deployed in Borneo presented to
Sarawak National Museum.
HMS ASHTON and HMS LEVERTON rescued passengers in Greek
Ferry HERAKLION.
Hulk of drifting tanker ESSBERGER CHEMIST sunk near the Azores
by gunfire from HMS SALISBURY. Earlier attempt by torpedo fired from HMS
DREADNOUGHT failed.
HMS BULWARK assisted flood victims in eastern Malaysia.
Extensive un-programmed deployments made in view of world
political unrest including that at Hong Kong provided by HMS BULWARK during
local strike and mainland China unrest. HMS HERMES landed troops to assist
civil power in Hong Kong.
HMS DAMPIER visited Jakarta, Indonesia before leaving Far
East after extensive hydrographic deployments
Accommodation at Bahrein
in HMS JUFAIR to be modernised.
HMS LLANDAFF involved in rescue of crew of Liberian mercantile
COCHTTA (sic) in Indian Ocean
HMS MOHAWK carried out rescue work in Caribbean.
HMS ZEST deployed at St Vincent during local election period
as a precaution.
1 9 6 8
Administration
Cost of modernisation of HMS ARK ROYAL raised in Parliament
Function of Amphibious Warfare ships in NATO questioned.
R&D work on Glass Reinforced Plastic completed. To be
used for coastal minesweepers and submarine casings
Logistic Support arrangements altered at MOD level.
Manpower target 94,900 to be reduced to 79,000 by 1973
Metric Charts issued.
New Digital Computer project for weapon control and
information announced (CAAIS)
New Pay Code and Pensions introduced in September and back
dated to 1st April. Existing pensions not included. Pay to be kept under review
by National Service Pay and Pensions Board
Port Admiral Title to replace Admiral in main Dockyard ports
* Article on Redundancy Programme in NAVY NEWS.
RFA Tanker strength to be Increase because
of reduction of shore fuel depots overseas.
Travelling Allowance
payments to be made instead of issue of Railway Warrants
‘Stand-By Squadron’ for RN ships Introduced for ships held
at short notice in Reserve.
HMS CORUNNA to be 'preserved’ in special
operation.
Changed Programme for 16,000 redundancies to be made between
1968 and 1973 announced. Extensions of service beyond 22
years to be limited.
Officers
*Article in NAVY NEWS on
Bos'n of
the Yard and Master Rigger.
Applications for Scholarships and Reserved Cadetships fell.
Numbers of personnel employed in
MOD(N)
personnel still high despite run-down of Fleet.
Ratings
Able Seaman Robin Cloude
of HMS DUNCAN convicted by court martial for passing information to USSR.
Artificer training period reduced by eight
months.
Coxswain Branch abolished.
Leading Seaman to be qualified for
appropriate 'Non-Sub’ rate before advancement.
New Entry requirement of 7,000 below
requirement. Re-engagements 29% (9 year) and 48% (12 year)
New Sea/Shore ratio drafting system began.
*Table of Shore Billets published In NAVY NEW.
* Article on Revised Drafting Rules in NAVY NEWS.
*Article en Second Sea Lord’s Visiting Team in NAVY NEWS.
*Article on Welfare Working Party in NAVY NEWS.
Ships
All new construction major warships to use Gas Turbine
propulsion
Availability record of COUNTY Class GM
Destroyers raised in Parliament.
Problems with conventional propulsion machinery during
refits admitted.
First Approach by National Maritime and
Imperial Mar Museum to acquire HMS BELFAST.
*Article on Boom Defence Vessels in NAVY NEWS
First two Type 42 SEADART fitted destroyers ordered - HMS
SHEFFIELD and HMS BIRMINGHAM (right - sister-ship HMS Cardiff, MOD. No
enlargement). New design 4" gun being developed for use as
main armament.
New Frigate (Type 21) to be designed by commercial
contract. Originally combined RN/RAN frigate. Contract
awarded to Vosper-Thornycroft and Yarrow Shipbuilders.
* Article on Radar Picket Ships in NAVY NEWS.
SEASLUG II fitting in COUNTY Class cancelled. To be replaced
by SEAWOLF.
Aerial required for SKYNET Satellite Communications system
found to be too large for fitting in small ships. New design SCOT aerial is suitable for this
purpose.
RAN design IKARA System to be fitted in some LEANDER Class
Frigates.
*Articles on HMS ABDIEL, HMS INTREPID and HMS ENGADINE in
NAVY NEWS.
HMS BULWARK returned from Far East and hurriedly redeployed
for NATO Exercise POLAR EXPRESS.
HMS EXMOUTH conversion far Gas Turbine use completed sea
trials.
HMS BLAKE conversion completed after long delays.
HMS LION to be converted to carry
helicopters.
HMS MATAPAN taken out of Reserve and
converted for use as Sonar Trials Ship.
Pre WW2 Coastal Minelayer HMS PLOVER Paid-off after 30 years
service.
HMS RAPID sale to Ecuador failed. Ship to be used for
Artificer training at Rosyth.
HMS SCYLLA launched at Devonport.
Bravery awards made to personnel of HMS DIANA.
Submarines
Development of Mark 24 Torpedoes delayed after trials
problems. These were second series of trials after extensive redesign work.
Clyde Submarine Base HMS NEPTUNE opened by HM
The Queen Mother.
New Escape equipment trials carried out from HMS ONYX at
depth of 125 feet in Loch Fyne.
*Article in NAVY NEWS
Awards made to inventors
of 'Hood’ Escape system.
Introduction of new Tactical missile cancelled.
Nuclear refitting complex for Fleet submarines opened at
Chatham. Cost £4.5M
Submarines to be baaed at Devonport with
support by HMS TYNE.
HMS ALLIANCE aground on
Bembridge
Ridge, IoW for some days. Bravery awards made to ship’s company of HMS ALLIANCE after
an explosion
HMS COURAGEOUS
laid down.
HMS DREADNOUGHT first refit in hand at
Rosyth.
HMS ODIN rescued crew of Liberian tanker SPYROS LEMOS and attempted
tow.
HMS RESOLUTION carried out first launch of POLARIS missile
by British submarine. Began first POLARIS deterrent patrol
HMS REVENGE launched.
HMS WARSPITE damaged by iceberg when submerged and escorted
to Clyde by HMS DUNCAN.
Naval Aviation
BUCCANEER aircraft flew direct to Far East with 'In-flight'
refuelling.
HARRIER aircraft operating trials carried out in HMS ARK
ROYAL and HMS BULWARK.
Flag Officer, Aircraft Carriers replaced by Flag Officer
Carriers and Amphibious Ships.
Plans to replace GANNET aircraft cancelled.
21st Anniversary of RNAS Culdrose.
SEA KING Helicopter to enter service in
1969.
Some naval PHANTOM aircraft delivered to RAF.
WASP Helicopters to be replaced by WG13 in mid 1970's.
WESSEX Helicopter gearbox modification found to be essential
and costly.
WESSEX Helicopters involved in rescue work at Home and in
Pacific.
Home Waters
Amphibious exercise carried out off Ulster coast with RUC involvement.
CinC Portsmouth to take over responsibility for all UK Shore
Establishments.
Port Admiral
status introduced in
all major naval ports.
* Dartmouth Training Squadron Article in NAVY NEWS.
HMS DRYAD, Southwick to become School of
Maritime Operations. Replaces responsibilities of Tactical School. Ferranti
design Computer controlled Tactical training simulator to be fitted for CAAIS
training.
Fire in "A” Turret on board HMS FIFE
at Portland.
Increased Safety Patrol recommended after loss of three
British trawlers off Iceland.
Increase in surveillance by Russian ships in northern
British waters.
* Article on A/S training at Londonderry in NAVY NEWS.
Multi-national minesweeping operation in North Sea (NEW
BROOM) to extend area covered by earlier work
NATO Review in Forth Estuary.
* Article on Chatham Naval Barracks HMS PEMBROKE in NAVY
NEWS.
NATO Exercise POLAR EXPRESS affected by availability of
WESSEX V A/S Helicopters.
Royal visit to HMS COLLINGWOOD by HM
The
Queen Mother.
Royal Naval College Greenwich future reprieved.
HMS SAFEGUARD, Boom Defence Depot,
Rosyth
Paid-off
SEASLUG trials in hand but fitting restricted to later
COUNTY Class.
Second Hovercraft to be used by Fishery
Protection Squadron.
NATO Standing Force Atlantic (STANAVFORLANT) commissioned.
Commodore, RN appointed as first Commander.
75th Anniversary of attack on
Zeebrugge
attended by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.
HMS CHICHESTER deployed for Fishery Protection duties and
accused by USSR of spying.on Soviet naval exercises.
HMS HARDY and HMS PENELOPE diverted to carry out search for
bodies and wreckage after crash of an Aer
Lingus VISCOUNT
aircraft off Rosslare. Salvage work carried out later
by HMS CLARBESTON, HMS INVERMORISTON, HMS SHOULTON, ,
HMS RECLAIM, HMS BELTON, HMS DUNCAN. HMS KEPPEL, HMS
CHILCOMPTON, HMS GALATEA and HMS ARETHUSA.
Foreign Stations
Beira patrol continued.
Closure of Suez Canal made necessary an increase of use of
Simons Town for calls by ships returning from service in the Far East. HMS WOOLASTON
delayed in South Africa by defect repair when on return passage from Singapore.
Future use of this facility in question because of embargo on
supply of arms to South Africa.
Dartmouth Training Squadron ships deployed for search in
Mediterranean for Israeli submarine DAKAR
Explosives clearance work carried out in Malta and at
Penang.
Increase in Russian naval deployments noted in Mediterranean
and East of Suez.
NATO Maritime Air Command set up in Mediterranean.
RFA and Coastal Minesweeper took stores to Sicily after
earthquake.
Naval Base at Singapore transferred to local government on
8th December. Management to be carried out by UK Company.
Withdrawal from Singapore deferred till end of 1971.
HMS CAMBRIAN landed party at Rodriguez, in Indian Ocean to
deal with armed rebellion.
HMS CARYSORT attended signing of Friendship Treaty with
Tonga.
HMS DECOY escorted Hong Kong ship to Gibraltar at Masters
request after unrest.
HMS DIANA assisted in fire-fighting in Spanish Tanker BAHIA
GATIDAMA off Crete. Awards to some of ship's company announced later.
HMS ENDURANCE carried out first Antarctic patrol and
assisted crew of civil aircraft.
HMS FEARLESS and HMS KENT used at Gibraltar during UDI
negotiations.
HMS FISKERTON forced to shelter in lee of RFA DERWENTDALE
during heavy weather whilst on passage from Singapore.
* Article on Mauritius W/T Station (HMS MAURITIUS) in NAVY
NEWS.
*Article on role of RN Office in Washington DC (HMS SAKER)
in NAVY NEWS.
* Article on HMS PROTECTOR in NAVY NEWS
Royal Navy Fleet Club in Malta closed after 61 years.
1 9 6 9
Administration
American company contracted to review future refitting
arrangements in Royal Dockyards.
Duty Free landing regulations altered to conform to civil
requirements.
Future of aircraft carriers and Fixed Wing
flying in RN subject to much comment.
Home Command introduced to replace Portsmouth and Plymouth
Commands.
House Purchase loans increased to £1,250 for officers and
£750 for ratings or 15% of Purchase Price. To be deducted from Terminal Grant
payable on release.
'Lead Yard' concept for refits proposed for nominated Royal
Dockyards.
Majority of MOD (Navy) offices moved from Admiralty Building
to new Main Building in Whitehall.
Manpower 91,769.
Re-engagements 2,700 without significant
change. 37% (9 year) ; 51% (12 year); 80%
Artificer Apprentices. Significant shortage of Artificers.
Intake requirements not met.
Officers 80% and Ratings 70%.
Grave Situation recognised as requiring
remedial action.
Mark 31 anti-submarine torpedo development still in hand.
Later cancelled.
Mess-deck layout alterations in ships made to allow more
space for recreation
New Pay Code introduced with increase in allowances and
pensions, except those for officers widows.
Charges to be made for food and accommodation provided for
by men receiving Ration allowance.
"X" Factor Pay increment to be introduced in 1970
to compensate for restrictions of service.
Number of Royal Marines Bands halved.
Reduced Manning standards introduced for some ships for
trial period, including HMS NAIAD and HMS EAGLE.
Review for Royal Dockyards completed and labour reductions
to be cut.
Chief Executive (Dockyards) appointed.
Separate Service Ministers replaced by Parliamentary
Secretaries to cover aspects of MOD responsibility for all three Services.
Shortage of spares due to financial
constraints affecting deployment of ships and aircraft.
Trials at NCRE showed further strengthening needed for
planned use of GRP for structure.
UK withdrew from Joint '3D’ radar development with
Netherlands.
Work of Hydrographic Research Centre into Thermal Layers
received publicity.
Officers
RNEC
Manadon training course for
Engineer Officers recognised as being of Honours Degree standard.
Advanced nuclear course recognised as
M.Sc
status.
RNR officers in Merchant Navy no longer
liable to be called up in an emergency.
Second annual entry
to Britannia Royal Naval College introduced. 28 University Scholarships
awarded.
Ratings
* Article on Drafting Preference Form in NAVY NEWS.
Fortnightly payments reintroduced for ratings.
Four Year Engagements introduced instead of
Nine if preferred but with lower pay.
Increase of
interest(70%) reported
for 5th and 6th term of Five years Re-engagement.
* Article about Married Quarters Rules in NAVY NEWS.
Naval Families Guide reprinted.
New WRNS Block opened in RN Barracks, Devonport.
*Article in NAVY NEWS on accommodation in HMS OSPREY,
Portland
Pension Increase on sliding scale to be introduced,
dependant on retirement age.
Re-engagement Grant payments ended.
Recruitment problems still severe.
5,000 New Entries.
Reduction in numbers of re-engagements by experienced
tradesmen.
Royal Naval Detention Quarters routines
altered and less severe.
*Article en Seaman Branch in NAVY NEWS.
Psychological and educational standards for entry reduced
New Entries to Shipwright Branch to be
trained as Mechanical Engineering Artificers. Branch first introduced in
1868.
Ships
British trawler claimed to have found wreck of HM Armed
Merchant Cruiser RAWALPINDI sunk in 1939.
Fast Patrol Boats Ordered from Vosper-Thornycroft
croft for training against attack by high speed craft.
Future deliveries of ships after completion to be made in
Home Ports for final Acceptance
Completion of refits in Royal Dockyard
being delayed by labour shortages.
Planning details for the new 'Through Deck Cruiser' concept
announced.
First Type 21 Frigate HMS AMAZON ordered from Vosper
Thornycroft. Initial drawings included SEAWOLF but this was
never achieved.
HMS ANTRIM
(right - during the 1982 Falklands War, Bob Shackleton) and HMS NORFOLK planned to be operational by
1970. This was never achieved.
HMS BLACKWOOD and HMS CROSSBOW to be
deployed as training tenders for ratings from HMS SULTAN (Engineers) and HMS
COLLINGWOOD (Electrical) Schools.
HMS BLAKE conversion delayed.
Ship's Bell from HMS CHEQUERS given to Prime Minister for
use at Chequers residence.
HMS DITTISHAM and HMS FLINTHAM, training tenders for HMS
GANGES visited Basle, Switzerland. First RN visit.
HMS FEARLESS used at Lagos by Prime Minister for meeting
with Nigerian leaders.
HMS MAIDSTONE and HMS HARTLAND POINT to be
used at Belfast with HMS RAME HEAD used at Londonderry.
HMS MANXMAN to be used for sea training of
Engineer officers.
HMS WOOTTON deployed for interception of gun runners off
Ulster
HMS INTREPID to be deployed for trials of
SATCOM equipment during passage to Far East. SKYNET 5 Communications
Satellite was launched in December.
Submarines
US Navy carried out trial using mew British Escape Suit.
British divers used US Deep Diving System allowing for long
periods down to 500 feet.
Last RN submarine of 4th Flotilla left Sydney after service
with RAN for A/S training.
Mark 24 Torpedo production transferred to Plessey and MOD
Project Controller appointed.
RN Torpedo Factory at Alexandria, near Glasgow closed.
Marker trials carried cut by HMS ANDREW in Irish Sea with
HMS VERULAM as consort.
No more nuclear submarines to be built at Birkenhead by
Cammell Laird.
Psychological problems in POLARIS submarine crews under
discussion.
Projected new Submarine Depot Ship (AS01) cancelled.
Consideration being given to use of new missile based on
French MARTEL. Later, US HARPOON system selected.
RN formally took over responsibility for maintaining British
Nuclear Deterrent on 1st July.
* Article on Submarine Service in NAVY NEWS.
Underwater Test
Platform ship (HMS CRYSTAL) ordered.
HMS CONQUEROR launched at Birkenhead.
HMS DREADNOUGHT completed nuclear refuelling at
Rosyth. Special precautions observed when Reactor removed.
HMS RENOWN (3rd POLARIS submarine) accepted.
Involved in collision with coastal steamer in Mull of Kintyre.
Lack of information about movement criticised. Results of
Missile Firing Trials commended by US Navy.
HMS REVENGE (last POLARIS submarine) accepted.
Involved in collision with HMS RESOLUTION at Faslane.
HMS SWIFTSURE, Fleet nuclear Submarine laid down.
* Article on HMS WARSPITE in NAVY NEWS.
Naval Aviation
First SEA KING Helicopters delivered.
Trials of Helicopter refuelling whilst hovering carried out
with HMS ROTHESAY.
PHANTOM aircrew carried out deck landing training on US
Carrier USS SARATOGA in Mediterranean. No RN carrier was available.
RNAS ARBROATH to be used for Commando Training.
RNAS
Lossiemouth to be turned over
to RAF.
RNAS Brawdy,
Pembroke to be closed.
RN/RAF controversy over provision of air
cover for Fleet given Press publicity.
Trans-Atlantic Air Race won by Naval PHANTOM.
Air refuelling rendezvous controlled by HMS NUBIAN.
WASP Helicopter from HMS PLYMOUTH used to demonstrate AS12 Guided
Missile
Home Waters
CinC Naval Home Command
established.
HMS COCHRANE
recommissioned at Rosyth as a Shore establishment. Replaced
HMS GIRDLENESS and DUNCANSBY HEAD.
HMS DRYAD and HMS SULTAN Schools to be extended to met new
training requirements.
HMS HECLA visited Rockall to re-affirm British sovereignty.
Libyan trainees at HMS SULTAN involved in disturbances over
feeding arrangements
NATO Fleet Review in Solent by HM
The
Queen to commemorate 20th Anniversary of founding.
Joint Anti-Submarine School at Londonderry moved to RAF
Turnhouse, Edinburgh.
HMS SEA EAGLE transferred to Army.
HMS LLANDAFF attended Investiture of HRH
The
Prince of Wales at Caernarvon.
HMS PENELOPE and HMS SCYLLA carried cut investigation into
propeller cavitation noise.
RN Tactical School at Woolwich to move to HMS DRYAD, School
of Maritime Operations at Southwick.
Royal Review in Torbay, during which
Queens Colour was presented to Western Fleet.
Russian warships continued their significant presence.
HMS SOBERTON, HMS LETTERSTON, HMS WASPERTON and HMS BELTON
of Fishery Protection Squadron involved in arrests for illegal fishing offences
in UK waters.
HMS ST VINCENT, training establishment at Gosport and opened
in 193,7 to be closed in April
Trials of use of helicopter for Fishery Protection carried
out in Thames estuary.
Unexploded bomb removed from wreck off St Heller, Channel
Islands.
Foreign Stations
*Article on HMS AFRIKANDER, Naval establishment at Simons
Town in NAVY NEWS.
HMS ARLINGHAM rammed by Spanish Customs launch near
Gibraltar. Subject of later formal complaint.
HMS ASHANTI and HMS MOHAWK embarked RM Commando detachment
at Bermuda during a Black Power Conference.
HMS BARRAGE and HMS BARNARD, last coal burning ships in RN
Paid-off.
HMS BULWARK and HMS ESKIMO took part in exercise off
Gibraltar.
HMS DIAMOND shadowed Russian Task Group off Gibraltar and
recovered bodies of two sailors from a tanker.
HMS MINERVA stood by at Montserrat for use if required
during local unrest.
HMS EAGLE relieved HMS BULWARK in Mediterranean. No aircraft
carrier deployed East of Suez.
HMS HYDRA took part in International Global Atmospheric
Research Programme in Atlantic.
HMS JAGUAR provided medical aid at
Astove,
Seychelles.
'Jenny' of Hong
Kong 'Side Party' fame received 'unofficial'
Bar to her Long Service Medal.
HMS ROTHESAY and HMS MINERVA landed Royal Marines at St
Vincent and Anguilla after local unrest.
'On call' NATO Standing Force to be introduced in
Mediterranean.
Parliamentary question about British contribution to
Naval presence in Hong Kong.
HMS LAYBURN, last RN ship in Malta.
Remaining Coastal Minesweepers put in Reserve at Gibraltar.
RFA ENNERDALE assisted South African destroyer during rescue
work in South Atlantic.
* Article In NAVY NEWS on Royal
visit to Brazil.
Sales cruise carried out to South American ports to attract
purchase of British warships
Temporary build up of RN ships in Gibraltar during UN
discussions about return of Gibraltar to Spain.
HMS VIDAL visited Basra and experienced some diplomatic
problems.
1 9 7 0
Administration
All Pay Accounting and Ratings Drafting records to be
computerised
Continuous Service scheme for ships in
place of fixed dates for each commission to begin in 1971.
Death of Admiral
Micheal Le Fanu who had retired on medical grounds when First Sea
Lord. A dynamic and forthright officer who will be sadly
missed.
Details of modernisation of Devonport and Portsmouth
Dockyards announced.
Building of three covered refit docks at Devonport approved.
Grievances from servicemen now to be
allowed as for other Government employees.
First promotion to Admiral rank of an Engineering Branch
officer.
French EXOCET missile system to be
introduced into RN use.
Increase in demands on Hydrographic Department due to use of
large tankers and deep diving submarines
Military Salary including X Factor introduced. Rise of 9%
for males and 1% for females. Promise made for pay to be reviewed every two
years.
Commutation paid on retirement to be subject to payment of
interest as it regarded as a loan. This caused apprehension and some disquiet.
Redundancies since 1965 totalled 2,180 on 1st January.
Royal Maritime Auxiliary Service (RMAS) established and to
include the larger vessels of the Port Auxiliary. New design of ensign for RMAS
introduced.
Changes in training of Royal Marines announced.
SKYNET Satellite Communications System in HMS INTREPID used
to carry out tests.
Supplementary Statement on Defence Policy issued after
change of Government in October.
Requirements for Training Establishments to be rationalised
(See below in Home Waters Section.)
Review of uniforms carried out.
University Naval Units established at Liverpool and
Southampton.
Officers
Ceiling age requirement for University Graduates
raised in numbers from 20 to 100.
Dartmouth Entry intake of 129 still below
required level.
'In Service' Degree for Executive and
Supply Branch officers being discussed with London University.
Minimum Seniority limits for entry into Promotion Zones for
Captain and Commander lowered.
Prince Charles to enter Britannia Royal
Naval College in 1971.
Redundancy programme in hand but some selections proved
premature as retention needed.
Shortage of Supplementary List officers.
Title of
Bos'n for Seaman Special
Duties Seamen officers abolished.
Ratings
Institute of City and Guilds recognised advancement course
for ratings in the Seaman and Communications Branches.
Disturbance Allowance paid to cover costs when moving home
improved.
DONALDSON Report on Service Conditions adopted.
Ratings under age of 18 on entry can be released after 3
years service.
Proposed 5 years for Artificers rejected.
4 Year Engagement
period for all
ratings to be allowed after 1971.
‘On the Job' training introduced as a Trial in some ships.
Rum Ration abolished en 31 July.
'Sailors 'Tot' Fund set up
Slight increase in Intake but numbers
still 50% below requirement.
33% Re-engagements (9 Year) and 59% (12 Year)
Terms of Regular Engagements altered. Release with 18 months
notice allowed after completion of 10 years service. Three Grades of Pay
introduced to recognise professional and other skills for some Ratings
'Trickle' drafting
for ships instead of fixed date recommissioning to begin in January 1971.
Warrant Rank introduced for Senior Ratings on 30th September.
Rank of 'Fleet
Chief' introduced to equate with Army and RAF Warrant Officers. (Note: These
did not equate with the Warrant Rank abolished in 1948)
Ships
HMS ANDROMEDA assisted RMAS Tug SAMSONIA after machinery
breakdown during gale in Pentland Firth whilst towing
HM LSI STALKER.
HMS ARK ROYAL
recommissioned in
presence of HM The Queen Mother. PHANTOM aircraft
modifications and CAAIS equipment fitted during refit. No defensive armament. Ship
to remain in service till late 1970's. First 'Hot Air’ Balloon ascent from RN
Carrier
COUNTY Class
GM destroyer propulsion plant problems
reported. HMS FIFE returned to UK from Malta after fire.
HMS EAGLE completed refit, and to operate SEA VIXEN and
BUCCANEER aircraft till paying off in 1972. Grounding of ship on entering
Devonport resulted in several courts martial.
Controversy about deployment of aircraft carriers East of
Suez continued.
HMS EXMOUTH not available for gas turbine
machinery trials because of spares and labour problems.
Extensive surveillance carried out on Russian ships in NW
Approaches.
HMS FEARLESS to join Dartmouth Training
Squadron instead of HMS MOHAWK.
15 Coastal
Minesweepers to be converted for use as Mine Hunters.
HMS HERMES to be converted for use as a
Commando Carrier.
Drawings for INVINCIBLE Class Aircraft carriers completed
but order for first ship delayed.
Proposed conversion of HMS LION to carry
helicopters no longer to be carried out.
HMS MATAPAN conversion for use as Sonar Trials ship in hand
at Portsmouth.
HMS
MANXMAN and HMS CENTAUR
(right - earlier in her career with Seahawks lined up, Navy Photos/TerryHeaps) scrapped.
HMS TORQUAY to replace HMS MANXMAN and HMS
ULSTER for training duties.
Negotiations for build of first Coastal
Minesweeper using GRP in hand. HMS WILTON to be first
ship.
HMS NORFOLK fitted with EXOCET French missile and carried
out trials on French firing range at Toulon.
R&D trials carried out in ASWE
Portsdown
during design work for new aerials. These were to involve simulation of sea
conditions.
SEASLUG missile still not ready for
operational use although fitted in last four COUNTY Class GM destroyers.
Test Launch from HMS GLAMORGAN in Cardigan Bay on Aberporth
Range failed. .Missile landed ashore
High Speed Launch TENACITY borrowed from Vosper-Thornycroft due to late delivery of FPB on order.
Submarines
Battery explosion in HMS AURIGA with
injuries to 10 of crew.
CHEVALINE Multi-warhead missile project work to improve
POLARIS missile capability began.
HMS CHURCHILL laid down in 1967 finally commissioned in
July. Labour difficulties blamed.
HMS CONQUEROR gearbox oil found to be contaminated. Sabotage
by labour force suspected.
HMS COURAGEOUS launched.
Delays in completion of new submarines and
torpedoes revealed in Parliamentary White paper.
Only seven new submarines will be in service by
1972 instead of 17. Mark 24 Torpedo
Programme still unsatisfactory. Special management system to
be set up. Design defect in Mark
8 Torpedo warheads made necessary special repair programme.
HMS DREADNOUGHT refit completion delayed by pipe work layout
and corrosion problems
MARTELL weapon to be developed for RN use.
Nuclear Deterrent responsibility absorbing
over 3,000 servicemen.
HMS OBERON visited Simons Town for 12 days.
First official visit for 6
years.
Free Ascent Trials carried out by HMS OSIRIS under way in
Mediterranean from 600 feet.
HMS RESOLUTION commenced first refit at
Rosyth
HMS REVENGE joined Fleet.
Trades Unions expressed concern about precautions during
nuclear submarine refitting
Investigation being carried out by Y-ARD Ltd into use of
electrical drive for auxiliary machinery in nuclear
submarines instead of steam drive.
World record for 'simulated depth’ endurance set up using
oxy-helium Breathing Mixture.
Naval Aviation
Air Force Cross awarded to PHANTOM pilot who saved his aircraft
after damage in flight.
Fixed wing flying and need for aircraft carriers still under
Public pressure.
RNAY (RN Aircraft Yard) Fleetlands,
Gosport to be responsible for repair of all Service Hovercraft.
RN to service all marine craft.
Flag Officer, Naval Aircraft moved from Lee on Solent to
Yeovilton.
Trials on HARRIER aircraft carried cut in HMS EAGLE and HMS
ARK ROYAL. Press forecast earliest 'in-service' date as 1980.
Hovercraft BH7 trials at Lee on Solent to
establish value for use as Fast Patrol Boat and as an Assault craft.
New Anti-submarine Helicopter Station established at
Prestwick, Ayr.
Record flight by SEA KING from Lands End
to John o'Groats.
Planned redundancy for 3,000 ratings withdrawn.
RNAS SEMBAWANG closed at Singapore with the end of Fixed
Wing flying.
Spares shortages for WASP Helicopters admitted.
VTOL terminology replaced by VSTOL.
WASP operating trials carried cut in HMS PHOEBE to assess
improvement in procedures.
WG13 (LYNX) Helicopter began manufacturer's trials.
Home Waters
HMS ARK ROYAL visited Oslo and had other high-publicity
Press coverage.
HMS DRYAD computerised Tactical Trainer being installed.
Fire-fighting and rescue of survivors carried out from
tanker PACIFIC GLORY off Isle of Wight. HMS ANDROMEDA and HMS ZULU took part.
Increased Fishery Protection deployments
to enforce new 12 Mile limit. HMS BELTON and HMS KEDLESTON made
successful interceptions.
HMS IVESTON crew courts martial held after 'mutinous'
conduct at Ullapool.
Surveillance of Russian ships by HMS LONDONDERRY, HMS
HECATE, HMS HECLA and HMS SOBERTON.
No suitable RFA ships available to take RM Commando for
exercise in Norway. Chartered ship proved to be an unsatisfactory substitute.
Only four Technical Training Establishments to be used in
future - HMS COLLINGWOOD (Electrical and Weapons), HMS DRYAD (Radar operators),
HMS SULTAN (Marine Engineering), HMS EXCELLENT
(Gunnery). Air Engineering School at Grail to move to Lee on
Solent. HMS DAUNTLESS (WRNS), HMS VERNON (Torpedo School), HMS ROYAL ARTHUR
(Leadership) and HMS CALEDONIA (Artificer Training) all to be closed.
RN patrols active to prevent arms smuggling into Ulster.
Russian visit to
Rosyth presented
problems related to use of RN radar in Forth area.
Salvage of coaster ST BRANDON in Bristol Channel carried out
by HMS CAVALIER.
HMS WOTTON survived Storm Force weather conditions off
Orkneys.
Foreign Stations
HMS BULWARK ‘Triad’ members in Chinese catering staff caused
problems.
Beira patrol maintained at cost of £2.5M annually.
No RN fleet Aircraft Carrier available for Exercise BERSATU
PADU in Indian Ocean in June. HMAS MELBOURNE took part. HMS BLAKE was withdrawn
because of boiler problems. .HMS BULWARK left after initial phase to visit
Japan to take part in EXP070.
Increased naval strength maintained in Mediterranean.
Need for Standing NATO FORCE was now apparent
but could not be implemented because of capability of Greek and Turkish ships. HMS
FIFE, HMS ALBION, HMS ARK ROYAL and ships of Dartmouth Training Squadron
deployed.
HMS INTREPID visited Mauritius with USS VALOUR.
Joint Defence Organisation to be set up in Malaysia after UK
withdrawal from Singapore. Training to be continued in Far
East.
Assistance provided in Pakistan after Flood damage
(Operation BURLAP). HMS INTREPID, HMS HYDRA, HMS SIR GALAHAD and
RFAs took part.
Extensive activities in West Indies included - HMS SIRIUS
rescued survivors from ferry off St Kitts, deployed near Jamaica and Grand
Cayman during political threats, and at San Juan, Puerto Rico during visit by
Lord Mountbatten. HMS SIRIUS and HMS GRENVILLE at Bermuda
during protests about visit by Prince Charles.
HMS GAVINGTON and HMS PUNCHESTON rescued crew of
Maldavian ship in Persian Gulf.
HMS HERMES assisted repair work on Panamanian EARNER off
Malta.
Protests made by Spain about exercises in Gibraltar area.
RFA ENNERDALE sank after hitting reef in Indian Ocean near
Seychelles.
HMS ROTHESAY patrolled possible Splash Down area in S,
Atlantic for APOLLO 13 Moon Mission.
RFAs deploys for transfer of
stores from Libya required for planned RM exercise in Norway
HMS
TRIUMPH assisted repair work on board Liberian tanker
FAIR TRANSPORT in South China Sea
HMS YARNTON sent to
Sharjah,
Persian Gulf to enforce movement requirements during oil drilling operations.
