HMS Swiftsure was a nuclear attack submarine laid down in 1969, launched in 1971, and commissioned in 1973 after costing £37.1 million. At 82.9 metres long, 9.8 metres in beam, and 8.5 metres in draught, she carried a crew of 116. Five 21-inch torpedo tubes could launch Spearfish and Tigerfish torpedoes as well as Harpoon missiles. These particulars establish the complexity of the platform before the lecture turns to the price and scope of her deep refit.
Notable Point · 26:48-28:21
HMS Swiftsure's size, crew, and mixed weapon fit
Swiftsure's build dates, compact dimensions, 116-person crew, and five torpedo tubes provide a concrete profile of the nuclear attack submarine before her refit is examined.