HMS Montrose passes latest tests as it is pushed to the limit

HMS Montrose has re-entered Plymouth after intensive machinery and weapons trials at sea.

The frigate, named after the Angus town, has successfully completed a number of complex marine and weapon engineering trials.

The ship’s engines have been pushed to the limits and have propelled the vessel to her top speed whilst the ship was manoeuvred to simulate extreme weather conditions.

The crew are getting used to living and working on board a warship at sea, which for many is their first taste of life at sea.

Able Steward Tanya Moore said: “People said I looked a little green from sea sickness at first, but you soon get over it and get on with the job.”

HMS Montrose has been within a few miles of a Chinese task force heading towards the Baltic Sea for a joint exercise with the Russian Navy, which was shadowed by UK forces.

The ship’s physical training instructor Melanie Haslam has conducted daily circuit training on board using the flight deck.

HMS Montrose will now conduct some more work including painting decks.

This will be followed by summer leave for the ship’s crew.

After summer the ship then sails to conduct more trials of the war fighting equipment and will also prepare for and practice with a flying helicopter.

With much more training to be completed before she rejoins the rest of the fleet for operational tasking, the ship’s company is growing in confidence as well as gaining experiences which will be invaluable over the next two years.

It is expected the ship will visit Montrose early next year.