End of the line for frigate HMS Montrose

After almost three decades of service, the vessel was slated for decommissioning in the UK’s 2021 previously published Integrated Review and Defence Command Paper.

Montrose was laid down in 1989 at the then Marconi Marine shipyard in Scotstoun, later commissioning in 1994 and went through a mid-life upgrade from 2014 to 2017, which saw the installation of the Sea Ceptor air defence system.

Montrose spent the last few years forward-deployed to the Gulf, achieving high levels of availability and conducting maritime security missions.

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Ahead of its decommissioning, Montrose returned to the UK late last year. Since entering service, Montrose has covered over 420,000nmi.

Another Type 23 frigate, HMS Monmouth, was decommissioned in 2021.

The move leaves the RN with 11 frigates in service as part of a 17-strong escort fleet that includes six Daring-class Type 45 destroyers.

The RN fleet will not grow in numerical strength until the City-class Type 26 and Inspiration-class Type 31 frigates are entered into service.

Related Equipment in Defence Insight

City Class (Type 26)