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H.M.S. Astute was the first of 7 proposed Astute class submarines. Currently, (Dec 2017), 3 are in active service and a 4th due in service early next year. They were built in the Devonshire Dock Hall in Barrow-in-Furness, and are based at HMNB Clyde.The class sets a new standard for the Royal Navy in terms of weapons load, communication facilities and stealth.
Astute are the latest class of nuclear-powered fleet submarines (SSNs) in service with the Royal Navy. They are intended to replace the HMNB Devonport based Trafalgar-class Submarines. Of the 7 built, only 3 remain in active service. The first, H.M.S. Trafalgar having been decommissioned in December 2009.
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Astute aquanauts wanted, for a voyage to the bottom of the sea
A Sad Tale: Recently, we flew to Pitt Island(Lat 44°21'5.53"S/Long176°10'0.51"W), one of the Chatham Island group. There we boarded our brand new Submersible. Our Support Boat towed us out to the Campbell Plateau. We detached and excitedly, descended to the depths. Our plan to note Geoid anomalies. All went well for a while, but, suddenly we lost propulsion, and nose-diving went in to a steep spiralling descent. With no other option we abandoned our craft. Our records showed us to be at the given co-ordinates, and a depth of 678 feet and falling fast. You'll be relieved to hear, we made it safely to the surface. All we need now is our submersible back. We have calculated its trajectory as to where we think it came to rest. But, just how deep it went no one knows.
Your Mission: Should you choose to accept it. Dive at the given co-ordinates and recover our vessel. We were not insured for salvage and would really appreciate your help. ( Also, official salvaging is forbidden in these waters, by Australian Maritime law).
Locating our Craft: It has, obviously, moved from our last known position and BEFORE you cast off ensure you have a green light from our search grid checker. Further drift is likely to have happened, details of locating our craft is in checker.
