DUNCAN Excels – The newest, and last, Type 45 Destroyer, DUNCAN has returned to Scotstoun (on the Clyde) after highly successful month long initial trial period.   The DUNCAN was testing the ability to manoeuvre, fire most of the weapon fit and flashed up the combat systems during the four weeks of tests off western Scotland. 

The destroyer reached a top speed of over 30kts (34mph) on speed runs, and a ‘fun’ 16˚ heel to one side during a high speed turn, tested not only the stability of DUNCAN, but the balance of the mixed civilian and RN crew.   The DUNCAN then headed up to the ranges around Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides.    A second series of trials is lined up for later this autumn before the team at Scotstoun complete their work on this ship over the winter.   The DUNCAN is due to sail for Portsmouth around Easter time 2013, when the ship is expected to be formally handed over to the Royal Navy and hoist the White Ensign for the first time.