News / Ministry of Defence
Falklands-era warship HMS Bristol sails to the scrapyard
HMS Bristol has been towed out of Portsmouth harbour and is now on her way to Turkey where she will be broken up and her parts recycled.
The Royal Navy ship was built in 1967 as the first and only Type 82 Destroyer, and was at one point the best-armed and best-equipped vessel in the fleet.
HMS Bristol played a vital role in the Falklands War in 1982 where she was flagship for a time before later becoming a training ship, giving many in the Navy their first taste of being on board a ship.
is needed now More than ever
HMS Bristol was formally decommissioned in 2020 after almost 48 years of active service.
That same year, there was an audacious attempt to bring her to Bristol as a floating hotel in the docks but the plans never came to fruition.
Construction of HMS Bristol began in 1967 with the decision to make her a one-off design, leaving her literally in a class of her own – photo: MoD
Former petty officer Mike Tuttiett, a Falklands War veteran, told the Portsmouth News that watching her leave the harbour “will be a very sad time”.
He said: “We’re proud that she’s the last ever ship from the Falklands to be commissioned and decommissioned.
“We’re proud of all the crew that served until she was decommissioned. It’ll be a very sad time for all of us.”
Chris Howe, of the South Atlantic Medal Association 1982, was quoted in the Herald: “As HMS Bristol embarks on its final voyage to the scrapyard in Turkey, we pause to reflect on its remarkable and unique legacy.
“This ship played a vital role in the 1982 Falklands conflict, serving as a headquarters and providing steadfast support to British forces.
“For many veterans, Bristol was more than a vessel; it was a home, a place of camaraderie and a symbol of resilience.
“Its departure marks the end of an era but its contributions to our history and the memories of those who served aboard will endure.
“We honour all who sailed in her and bid HMS Bristol a respectful farewell.”
HMS Bristol was towed out of Portsmouth harbour early on Wednesday morning – photo: MoD
HMS Bristol’s sale was negotiated by a team at the MoD’s Defence Equipment & Support, whose headquarters are at Abbey Wood in Filton.
Head of DE&S’ defence recycling & disposals team, Alistair Hughes, said: “Recycling of ships at the end of their hull life is routine business for the Royal Navy and our aim is to achieve maximum value for money for Defence in an environmentally compliant manner.
“HMS Bristol is a fitting example of this after her many dedicated years of service.”
Main photo: Ministry of Defence
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