This was an interesting year for HMNB Clyde.

We were delighted to host HRH The Princess Royal in January to open the Drumfork Community Centre, which has become a hub for military personnel, their families and members of the wider community.

This year we also welcomed HMS Audacious which joined sister submarines HMS Astute, HMS Ambush and HMS Artful which are already in service and operating from Faslane. A further three boats are currently under construction at BAE in Barrow.

We have witnessed the completion of the submarine escape, rescue, abandonment and survival (SMERAS) training building. This unique and modern facility will provide the capability to deliver essential on-shore training for personnel in a unique, controllable environment.

This has been a challenging year for the country and I am proud to say that we have continued to deliver defence’s key strategic output whilst remaining Covid compliant. A remarkable achievement and one made possible because of our people – military, civilian and industry partners – and the dedication of their loved-ones. Not to forget support from those across Dumbarton and the Vale who have consistently welcomed service personnel and their families.

We will continue to grow and invest in 2021. We will see HMS Anson arrive, and the progress towards becoming the UK’s submarine centre of specialisation will continue with further work on the new training facility. We are looking forward to working alongside the community, exploring the benefits and opportunities that the ongoing development of the base will bring.

Commodore Donald Doull,

Naval base commander, HMNB Clyde