Navy submariners pictured wearing black caps for one of first times

Royal Navy submariners have been pictured wearing black cap covers for what is thought to be one of the first times since they were reintroduced last year.

The Silent Service, as its name suggests, is not seen as much as the Royal Navy's surface fleet and the images of submariners wearing the black caps sparked conversations on social media.

Some social media users questioned the dark-coloured headwear, while others explained the change.

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The photos were taken on Wednesday as new Minister for Defence Procurement Alec Shelbrooke visited the home of the UK's nuclear deterrent at HMNB Clyde.

Then First Sea Lord and now Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, announced the return of the black cap covers last year.

"To recognise the unique ethos of the #SubmarineService within the @RoyalNavy, approval has been given for all qualified submariners, ratings and officers, to wear black cap covers as of today," he tweeted in July 2021.

"Black covers will now be the default except for ceremonial events."