Queen appointed Vice Admiral of the UK during visit to Royal Navy submarine

The Queen has been appointed Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom during a visit to HMS Astute at Devonport Naval Base in Plymouth.

The honorary role, which dates back to the early 16th century, was formally conferred during a ceremony aboard the Royal Navy's hunter-killer submarine, as the vessel marks the end of its first commission – the longest of any Royal Navy submarine.

Rear Admiral Andy Perks, Head of the Submarine Service, presented Queen Camilla with a ceremonial burgee – a traditional pennant – in recognition of her new title and continued support to the Royal Navy.

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As sponsor of HMS Astute, the Queen has maintained a close relationship with the boat and her crew since formally naming the vessel nearly 20 years ago, when she was the Duchess of Cornwall.

Commander Christopher Bate, the submarine's current Commanding Officer, said: "Her Majesty The Queen has supported us from the very beginning.

"She has consistently shown a deep commitment to all aspects of our work.

"Her continued engagement with our activities and achievements over the years has meant a great deal to us. It is a proud and memorable moment to welcome Her Majesty to HMS Astute and for her meet our families as we mark the end of our first commission."

HMS Astute will soon undergo a major overhaul known as a Mid Life Re-Validation Period, delivered by Babcock International alongside the MOD and ship's crew.

The submarine has completed 15 years of global operations, becoming the first of her class to visit Australia and the United States, and supporting the UK's carrier strike operations and Aukus partnerships.

The Queen also serves as sponsor of the Royal Navy's flagship, HMS Prince of Wales, and holds honorary roles as Commodore-in-Chief of the Royal Navy Medical Service and Naval Chaplaincy Services.

The ceremonial title of Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom was first created by King Henry VIII in 1513.

The most recent holder was the late Admiral the Lord Boyce.

During the visit, the Queen inspected a Guard of Honour of submariners, posed for a photograph on the casing of the submarine with former commanding officers, and attended a ceremony on the jetty to lower the Ensign and Union Flag.

The ship's company then gave a traditional "Cheer Ship" for their sponsor.

Following the formalities, the Queen joined the 100-strong crew and their families for a garden party at HMS Drake.