Access all arias: Singer Katherine Jenkins tours her warship, new frigate HMS Cardiff

The Welsh mezzo-soprano – the biggest selling classical artist this century – paid her second visit to the leading-edge frigate which is being completed in BAE Systems yard in Scotstoun on the Clyde.

Katherine donned hard hat, overalls and high-visibility jacket to tour the 8,000-tonne warship in company with those responsible for building the anti-submarine frigate – and some of the Royal Navy personnel who are preparing the way for Cardiff to join the Fleet.

The singer was named as Ship’s Sponsor three years ago, an honorary title and role which has historically served to bestow good luck and divine protection upon a vessel.

Regarded as a permanent member of the ship’s company, sponsors attend key moments in a vessel’s life – such as launch, commissioning ceremonies, homecomings from operational missions – are kept regularly informed of the sailors’ activities and deeds, send messages of support in return in hard and challenging times, and generally act as ambassadors for and champions of the crew and their ship.

As part of that connection with HMS Cardiff, Katherine signed a specially-composed blessing for the ship and all who’ll sail in her, the final verse written in Welsh. It will now be framed and go on display in the ship once completed.

Katherine also named one of the ship’s four mighty diesel generators – each could provide power to 3,000 homes – and was presented with a photo album of images of her first visit to the ship.

She was delighted with “the extraordinary progress being made by the team bringing her to life”.

Katherine continued: “As Ship’s Sponsor, it's a role I hold with great pride and responsibility, so this annual visit is always a special opportunity to check in on her journey.

“It was fascinating to see how far she has come. I was also delighted to meet two of the ship’s company and hear about the people who will one day call her home.

“The ship is progressing beautifully, the children's painting remains in place, one of the generators has been named Katherine, and my dockyard couture continues to be under appreciated by the fashion industry.”

Lieutenant Commander Gary Nicolson, HMS Cardiff’s 1st Lieutenant, said: It was a privilege to welcome Katherine Jenkins aboard HMS Cardiff. Her passion and dedication as ship sponsor were evident, and her support means a great deal to the ship’s company.

“Meeting her has strengthened our resolve and pride as we prepare to bring this remarkable vessel into service.”

Cardiff’s Executive Warrant Officer Darran Sullivan added: “Meeting Katherine Jenkins during her visit to HMS Cardiff while the ship is still under construction was an incredible experience.

“Moments like these remind us of the important role the ship plays and the strong connection we share with those who support her.”

The two sailors are working alongside their colleagues from HMS Glasgow, the first vessel in the eight-ship Type 26 programme, to write the ‘user manual’ for the entire class so they can all enter service seamlessly and operate identically.

Laid down in 2019 and transferred from BAE’s Govan facility to Scotstoun on the other side of the Clyde in 2024, HMS Cardiff will be based in Devonport when she enters service.

Her mission will be to protect UK waters, the nation’s strategic nuclear deterrent and most important surface ships, such as aircraft carrier strike groups, from the latest underwater threats, crewed by around 160 sailors.

In addition to her principal submarine hunting role, HMS Cardiff will be able to launch commando raids, board and search operations, launch and recover drones, provide relief to areas hit by natural disasters, conduct evacuations and many other duties expected of Royal Navy warships patrolling the globe.

Images courtesy of BAE Systems