A number of Defence stories feature in today's media, including the HMS Audacious and Defence spending.
HMS AUDACIOUS
There widespread coverage that HMS Audacious, the fourth of seven Astute class attack submarines being built for the Royal Navy, has entered the water for the first time at BAE Systems’ site in Barrow-in-Furness. Articles report that it is armed with Spearfish torpedoes and long-distance Tomahawk land attack missiles, adding that the submarine will start sea trials next year.
Assistant Chief of Naval Staff Submarines, Rear Admiral John Weale, who travelled to Barrow to see Audacious enter the water, said:
It’s an exciting moment to see HMS Audacious enter the water for the first time ahead of trials. Such a feat of engineering is testament to the skills of the BAE Systems workforce in Barrow. As part of an increasingly capable Royal Navy, HMS Audacious will go on to serve on operations right around the world, helping keep Britain safe.
DEFENCE SPENDING
There is reporting on the HCDC report SDSR 2015 and the Army, published today.
An MOD Spokesperson said:
Our troops are amongst the most capable in the world. In the 2015 Strategic Defence and Security Review, the Ministry of Defence committed to providing adequate funding to ensure a fully effective fighting force.
ARMY V NAVY RUGBY
The Telegraph previews this weekend’s 100th Babcock Trophy match between the British Army and the Royal Navy, in which rugby players from both services will line up in front of 80,000 fans at Twickenham. The report includes mention of Bath player Lance Corporal Semesa Rokoduguni, reflecting on his service in the British Army, as well as his exploits on the rugby pitch.
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