New pictures show Type 26 frigate HMS Cardiff in water for the first time

New images show HMS Cardiff, one of the Royal Navy's next-generation Type 26 submarine hunters, in water for the first time.

After being moved out of Govan on a barge, HMS Cardiff was lowered into the water at Glen Mallen on Loch Long, before making her way back up the River Clyde to BAE Systems' yard at Scotstoun.

Pictures show the City-class frigate being towed underneath Erskine Bridge as she made her way to Scotstoun to undergo the next stages of her outfitting before being tested and commissioned.

• Float-off process begins as HMS Cardiff prepares to enter the water for first time
• Glasgow meets Cardiff as Type 26 frigates moor alongside each other for first time
• Singer Katherine Jenkins checks if HMS Cardiff progress is still on song for autumn float

After arriving at the dockyard, HMS Cardiff was pictured moored next to her sister ship, HMS Glasgow, for the first time.

The next-generation frigates are designed to be primarily submarine hunters, replacing the Type 23s.

They are also expected to carry out other roles, with adaptable mission bays to allow the eight City-class ships to operate drones, mine-hunting systems or raiding kit for Royal Marines Commandos.