Royal Navy decommissions first River-class OPV HMS Severn

The Royal Navy has decommissioned River-class patrol vessel HMS Severn after fourteen years of service.

The decommissioning ceremony took place at HM Naval Base Portsmouth on Firday, October 27.

The ship’s company and guests gathered at South Railway Jetty for a final inspection and service of thanksgiving for her crew and the safe completion of her commission.

HMS Severn has now reached the end of her planned service life, and the majority of her 45 personnel will remain within the squadron.

Although Severn is the second of three vessels in her class, she is the first to be decommissioned. Sister ships Mersey and Clyde are set to serve until 2019 before the decommission.

Severn was the first of the Royal Navy’s offshore patrol vessels ever to undertake North Atlantic patrol duties in the Caribbean, a task usually undertaken by a destroyer or RFA vessel, taking her away from her usual work as part of the Fishery Protection Squadron.

Amongst their final duties were a visit to Newport a fortnight ago, the city to which HMS Severn was affiliated. HMS Severn was awarded the freedom of the city in 2006, and her company marched through Newport one last time as well as welcoming friends, families and guests from her affiliates onboard.

HMS Severn and her sister ships are being replaced by a new generation of River class vessels, the first of which, HMS Forth, will enter service later this year.