HMS PORTLAND is a Duke Class Type 23 Frigate, the eighth Royal Navy vessel to bear the name. She was built on the Clyde and was launched by the Ship’s Sponsor, Lady Heather Brigstocke on 15 May 1999, and commissioned into the Royal Navy on 3 May 2001.

Led by Commander Matthew Court RN, HMS PORTLAND; originally designed as anti-submarine vessel, has been used in a variety of other roles, from warfighting to maritime security operations. Having been upgraded with new engines, Radar and the new Sea Ceptor missile system, HMS PORTLAND completed a planned maintenance period in early 2025 and then went on to onload the 400kg Naval Strike Missile (NSM) again for operations in the North Atlantic during mid 2025.  Operational commitments continued for the ship and crew who are now enjoying the delights of their home port albeit undergoing BOST as she continues her build up back to frontline operations. HMS Portland returned to Devonport following day one of BOST with FOST (Basic Operational Sea Training with Fleet Operational Standards and Training).

📎Find out more here

In 2006 the Branch commissioned a silver server to endow to HMS PORTLAND as an annual award to a member of the ship’s company who had performed over and above their normal duty.  The server (then to be known as the Portland Plate) has been awarded ever since.

 

Members of the Branch were honoured to be invited to renew ties with HMS PORTLAND during an “Affiliates Day” at sea in the Plymouth operating area in January 2025.