New Royal Navy commodore appointed at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland

A new naval base commander has now taken post at Scotland's largest military establishment.

The HM Naval Base Clyde's previous commander, Commodore Bob Anstey, handed over to Commodore Sharon Malkin in a ceremony marking his retirement from the Royal Navy after 36 years of service.

Cdre Malkin, who is new to the base, was previously employed as head of the Customer Support Team for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO).

• Thousands of 'tank-killer' Nlaws ordered to bolster UK stockpiles following Ukraine support
• French special forces conduct daring parachute jump onto moving warship
• UK Space Command announces new name for Buckinghamshire HQ

"I am honoured and delighted to be assuming command of HMNB Clyde," said Cdre Malkin. "The Clyde community sits at the heart of UK defence and the achievements of so few, for so many, are impressive and hard-earned.

"In recognising achievements, I wish to recognise Cdre Bob Anstey for his time as NBC and his 36 years of naval service; on behalf of the whole naval base, I thank him wholeheartedly."

His Majesty's Naval Base Clyde is the Royal Navy's main presence in Scotland. Split between two sites, Faslane and RNAD Coulport, the base is home to the Submarine Service, including the nation's nuclear deterrent, and the new generation of hunter-killer submarines, the Astute Class.

Speaking about his time at the Naval Base, Commodore Anstey said: "It has been a huge honour to serve as the naval base commander of HMNB Clyde for my final post in the Royal Navy.

"The last two years have seen a significant challenge to base activity, with Covid disrupting every aspect of the way we do our business.

"Our progress in returning our operations to 'business as usual' has been a significant achievement."

He continued: "I am proud that our people across the Clyde community have ensured that our ships and submarines have remained fully supported throughout this unprecedented period of challenge and wish all, in both the naval base and our community partners, the very best for the future."