HMS St Albans has returned to sea after a major four-year refit at His Majesty’s Naval Base Plymouth.

The Type 23 frigate shines like new, thanks to the extensive work completed during the overhaul.

As the ship undergoes simulated sea exercises with seasoned sailors guiding the new recruits, it marks a crucial step towards full operational readiness.

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Ahead of setting sail, HMS St Albans role-played being at sea – while staying firmly tied up – giving the team the chance to run through their drills safely with experts from Fleet Operational Sea Training on board to check all is well.