HMS Bristol: Decommissioned vessel goes up for sale for recycling

A former Royal Navy Type 82 Destroyer has been put up for sale by the Defence Equipment Sales Authority (DESA) – but only for recycling.

HMS Bristol lowered its White Ensign for the final time at a decommissioning ceremony in Portsmouth last year, bringing to a close 47 years of service.

Britain's sole Type 82 Destroyer, she was designed originally to defend a class of aircraft carriers that were never built.

She notably saw action in the Falklands during 1982, leading a group of two destroyers, five frigates and one RFA supply ship arriving as reinforcements.

After nearly two decades at sea, HMS Bristol was re-commissioned and converted into a harbour training ship in 1993 at Whale Island, Portsmouth, where she remained for the rest of her career.

The vessel, described as being in "fair" condition, is moored at HMNB Portsmouth and will be sold from there with viewings taking place in September. 

Offers will only be considered from UK companies or firms included on the current European List of ship recycling facilities.

All parties interested in buying the vessel for recycling have to complete and submit a declaration of compliance form.

Anyone interested in purchasing HMS Bristol must not book travel until they receive an Invitation to Tender in case COVID restrictions still apply, according to the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

DESA is part of the MOD and is responsible for selling surplus military equipment and inventory from the UK's Armed Forces.

In May, two former Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships – RFA Fort Austin and RFA Fort Rosalie – were put up for sale, but only for recycling. The two vessels are still available.

Cover image: HMS Bristol at sea (Picture: Royal Navy).