HMS Bulwark visits London 17.03.11
19HMS Bulwark -- the Royal Navy's largest and most technologically advanced amphibious assault and command and control ship -- is moored in Greenwich for the next four days to display her breathtaking capabilities.
She is an example of how the Royal Navy can rapidly deploy in times of need, with a wide range of assets and skills. Visitors to the ship are being given a close-up look at her hardware: She carries a large variety of boats, land vehicles, amphibious landing craft and helicopters.
At the end of her stay she will give a dynamic demonstration - both airborne and afloat - against the backdrop of the River Thames.
HMS Bulwark's Commanding Officer, Captain Alex Burton, said the ship is "the country's very own Swiss Army knife" and was "totally indispensable and phenomenally versatile."
He said "She packs a punch with our Royal Marines and delivers proven essential support to the softer humanitarian and disaster relief operations and homeland defence.
"It is extremely fortunate we have found time in the busy generation programme to demonstrate to the capital what we can deliver. My team can't wait to show it off.
"In these uncertain times we are totally focused on our commitments to the country's interests and responsibilities and expect to be very busy once fully operational later this year."
Defence Secretary Liam Fox said: "HMS Bulwark is a great asset that, along with HMS Albion provides the UK with impressive amphibious and command and control capability for a range of options. Ships like Bulwark play an important role in projecting UK power abroad and protecting British interests abound the world."
Alongside her sister ship HMS Albion she will be part of the UK's maritime contingent capability known as the Response Force task Group (RFTG).
The task force comprises amphibious shipping, frigate and destroyer escorts, support shipping, and the Lead Commando Group Royal Marines.
When HMS Bulwark leaves Greenwich she will continue with her sea training in preparation for her new role of UK Fleet Flagship and High Readiness Assault Ship later this year. She will then visit Den Helder, Holland, before returning home to Plymouth for a short upkeep period at the end of March.