THE Royal Navy frigate HMS Sutherland, now the most advanced warship in the fleet, has sailed for the first time after a major 13-month refit .

The ship sailed from HM Naval Base, Devonport, on sea trials having been fitted with the latest equipment and radars in order to keep her world-leading ability.

Commander Stephen Anderson, the ship’s captain, said: “This occasion is the most significant step yet towards HMS Sutherland’s return to the fleet after a 14-month absence for a maintenance package that will extend our in -service life considerably.

“This is the culmination of a successful partnership between military and industry stakeholders, who along with my ship’s company have consistently demonstrated professionalism, drive, enthusiasm and the initiative necessary to complete the large number of commissioning and acceptance trials to allow us to safely return to sea.

“We are all now very much looking forward to the next challenge that will result in us completing sea acceptance trials ahead of operational sea training.’’

The majority of the crew are young and fresh from training and therefore, they will be serving on their first ship and sail with her on their first operational patrol.

Engineering Technician (weapons) Adam Muncaster, said: “I’m looking forward to going to sea finally after being in the navy 15 months and never going to sea it will be a great experience to finally leave the wall.

"I’m looking forward to see the equipment I’ve helped install or fix all working whilst at sea and help fix anything that needs my attention while at sea.

"Even though I’ve only been with the ship six months it will feel good to know I’ve been part of our refit which will lead onto my first deployment.’’

Engineering Technician Tyler Flynn said: “Having recently finished my phase two training in HMS Sultan, I was given the responsibility to join the marine engineering team onboard HMS Sutherland.

"Helping take this ship out of refit and back into the fleet is an extremely hard job, which I am honoured to be a part of.

“This will be my first time on a warship out at sea. Other than nervousness to put all my training to the test, I am looking forward to seeing the world and enjoying my time in the Navy and on board HMS Sutherland.’’

Sub Lieutenant Charlotte Eddy, an officer of the watch, said: “I’m looking forward to getting back to sea and completing my platform endorsement.

"Having spent many months alongside, the bridge team are keen to get back to sea to undertake their core role as officers of the watch.’’

On completion of testing the equipment at sea and honing the crew’s skills, the ship will return to Plymouth to be tested to operate as a war-fighting team under the best and most intense and realistic training in the world under Flag Officer Sea Training.

The weeks of training prepare them for deployment worldwide whenever tasked.