A dramatic maritime incident unfolded in Glasgow on Wednesday when a visiting Norwegian frigate collided with the Royal Navy's Type 23 frigate, HMS Argyll, whilst both vessels were in a dry dock at the BAE Systems shipyard in Scotstoun.
The Norwegian KNM Helge Ingstad was manoeuvring into the same facility as the British warship when the collision occurred, resulting in what the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed as "significant damage" to HMS Argyll.
Immediate Aftermath and Official Response
An MoD spokesperson stated, "We are aware of an incident that occurred in the dry dock at Scotstoun involving a Norwegian frigate and HMS Argyll. The incident caused significant damage to the ship, and an investigation is now under way."
Initial reports and images from the scene suggest substantial damage to the hull of the British frigate. Notably, the incident was raised in the House of Commons by the SNP's defence spokesperson, Martin Docherty-Hughes, who represents the area where the shipyard is located.
A Question for the Defence Secretary
Addressing the Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, Mr. Docherty-Hughes pointedly asked, "Can I ask the Secretary of State if he could update the house on the reported ramming of HMS Argyll by a Norwegian frigate in His Majesty's Naval Base in Clyde?". He further inquired about the extent of the damage and the potential impact on the UK's naval capabilities, given the frigate's recent role in defending against Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
The incident raises serious questions about docking procedures and safety protocols at the strategically important shipyard, which is crucial for the maintenance of the Royal Navy's fleet.
Ongoing Investigation
The Ministry of Defence has emphasised that a full investigation is currently in progress to determine the exact cause of the collision. The focus will be on understanding the sequence of events that led the Norwegian vessel to make contact with the stationary HMS Argyll.
There were no reports of injuries as a result of the collision. The extent of the damage and the timeline for repairs on the British frigate remain to be assessed by naval engineers.
