View source for HMS Argyll (F231)

{{short description|1991 Type 23 or Duke-class frigate of the Royal Navy}}
{{Other ships|HMS Argyll}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2022}}
{|{{Infobox ship begin}}
{{Infobox ship image
|Ship image=Royal Navy Type 23 Frigate HMS Argyll MOD 45153839.jpg
|Ship caption=HMS ''Argyll'', 2009}}
{{Infobox ship career
|Hide header=
|Ship country=[[United Kingdom]]
|Ship flag={{shipboxflag|United Kingdom|naval}}
|Ship name=HMS ''Argyll''
|Ship ordered=September 1986
|Ship awarded=
|Ship builder=[[Yarrow Shipbuilders]]
|Ship yard number=
|Ship laid down=20 March 1987
|Ship launched=8 April 1989
|Ship sponsor=
|Ship christened=
|Ship completed=
|Ship acquired=
|Ship commissioned=31 May 1991
|Ship recommissioned=
|Ship decommissioned=
|Ship in service=
|Ship out of service= May 2024
|Ship renamed=
|Ship reclassified=
|Ship struck=
|Ship reinstated=
|Ship homeport=[[HMNB Portsmouth]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=27 April 2021|title=FOI(A) regarding the Royal Navy|url=https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/743903/response/1777888/attach/3/FOI2021%2003678%20Response.pdf?cookie_passthrough=1|access-date=1 June 2023|website=What do they know?}}</ref>
|Ship identification=*{{IMO Number|8949599}}
*{{MMSI Number|165327752}}
*[[Pennant number]]: F231
*International callsign: GACG<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rncom.mod.uk/uploadedFiles/RN/Reference_Library/20090227_bridge_card.pdf |title=Fleet Bridge Card |date=27 February 2009 |website=[[Royal Navy]]|access-date=20 June 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090625120530/http://www.rncom.mod.uk/uploadedFiles/RN/Reference_Library/20090227_bridge_card.pdf |archive-date=25 June 2009}}</ref>
|Ship motto=*''Ne Obliviscaris''
*("Lest We Forget")
|Ship nickname=
|Ship honours=
|Ship captured=
|Ship fate=
|Ship status=Awaiting disposal
|Ship notes=
|Ship badge=[[File:HMS Argyll badge.jpg|100px|Ship's badge]]}}
{{Infobox ship characteristics
|Hide header=
|Header caption=
|Ship class=Type 23 [[frigate]]
|Ship displacement={{convert|4900|t|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/ships/frigates/type-23-frigate |title=Type 23 Frigate |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>
|Ship length={{convert|133|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|Ship beam={{convert|16.1|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|Ship height=
|Ship draught={{convert|7.3|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|Ship power=
|Ship propulsion=
*[[Combined diesel-electric and gas|CODLAG]]:
**Four 1,510{{nbsp}}kW (2,025{{nbsp}}hp) [[Paxman Valenta]] 12CM diesel generators
**Two [[General Electric Company|GEC]] [[electric motor]]s delivering 2,980{{nbsp}}kW (4,000{{nbsp}}hp)
**Two [[Rolls-Royce Spey]] SM1C delivering 23,190{{nbsp}}kW (31,100{{nbsp}}hp)
|Ship sail plan=
|Ship speed=In excess of {{convert|28|kn|abbr=on|lk=in}}
|Ship range={{convert|7500|nmi|km|lk=in|-3}} at {{convert|15|kn|km/h|abbr=on}}
|Ship endurance=
|Ship complement=185 (accommodation for up to 205)
|Ship sensors=
|Ship EW=
* UAF-1 ESM, ''or'', UAT Mod 1
* [[Seagnat]]
* Type 182 towed torpedo decoy
* [[SSTD|Surface Ship Torpedo Defence]]
|Ship armament=
*''Anti-air missiles:''
**1 × 32-cell [[vertical launching system|GWS 35 Vertical Launching System (VLS)]] for:
**32 × [[Sea Ceptor]] missiles (1–25+&nbsp;km)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/royal-navy-unveiled-sea-ceptor-and-launched-first-user-group-at-dsei-2017 |title=Royal Navy unveiled Sea Ceptor and launched first user group at DSEI 2017 |work=European Defence Review |last=Peruzzi |first=Luca |access-date=26 November 2021 }}</ref>
*''Anti-ship missiles:''
**2 × quad [[Harpoon (missile)|Harpoon Block 1C]] (originally fit, retired 2023)<ref>{{cite web |date=19 December 2023 |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/first-nsm-fit-on-rn-type-23-frigate |title=First NSM fit on RN Type 23 frigate |website=Janes |last=Scott |first=Richard |access-date=23 April 2024}}</ref><ref name=navylookoutAS>{{cite web |date=August 26, 2021 |url=https://www.navylookout.com/contenders-for-the-royal-navys-interim-anti-ship-missile-requirement/ |title=Contenders for the Royal Navy's interim anti-ship missile requirement |website=navylookout.com |access-date=October 31, 2021}}</ref>
*''Anti-submarine torpedoes:''
**2 × twin 12.75{{nbsp}}in (324{{nbsp}}mm) [[Sting Ray (torpedo)|Sting Ray torpedo]] tubes
*''Guns:''
**1 × [[BAE Systems|BAE]] [[4.5 inch Mark 8 naval gun|4.5{{nbsp}}inch Mk{{nbsp}}8 naval gun]]
**2 × [[30mm DS30M Mark 2 Automated Small Calibre Gun|30{{nbsp}}mm DS30M]], ''or'' [[DS30B rapid fire cannon|DS30B guns]]
**2 × [[Minigun]]s (may be replaced by [[Browning .50 caliber machine gun|Browning .50 caliber heavy machine guns]] as of 2023)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-the-fleet-solid-support-ship-design/ |title=In focus: the Fleet Solid Support ship design |publisher=Navy Lookout |date=28 February 2023 |access-date=14 April 2023}}</ref>
**4 × [[FN MAG|General-purpose machine gun]]
|Ship armour=
|Ship aircraft=* 1 × [[AgustaWestland AW159|Wildcat HMA2]], armed with:
** 2 × [[Sting Ray (torpedo)|Sting Ray]] anti-submarine torpedoes, ''or''
** 20 × [[Lightweight Multirole Missile|Martlet]] multirole air-surface missiles (from 2021)
** Mk 11 depth charges
* ''or''
* 1 × [[AgustaWestland AW101|Westland Merlin HM2]], armed with;
** 4 × anti submarine torpedoes
|Ship aircraft facilities=
* Flight deck
* Enclosed [[hangar]]
|Ship notes=}}
|}

The third '''HMS ''Argyll''''' is a [[Type 23 frigate|Type 23]] Duke-class [[frigate]]. Commissioned in 1991 and prior to her retirement, ''Argyll'' was the oldest serving Type 23 frigate in the [[Royal Navy]]. Like all of her class she was named after a British [[Duchy|dukedom]], in this case that of [[Duke of Argyll|Argyll]]. HMS ''Argyll'' was [[Keel laying|laid down]] in March 1987 by [[Yarrow Shipbuilders]] at [[Glasgow]], and [[Ceremonial ship launching|launched]] in 1989 by Lady Wendy Levene, [[Ship sponsor|sponsored]] by the [[Worshipful Company of Paviors]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.paviors.org.uk/outreach-programmes/hms-argyll |title=HMS ''Argyll'' |website=The Worshipful Company of Paviors |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

''Argyll'' was the first Type 23 to be fitted with the new [[Sea Ceptor]] missile system.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.adsadvance.co.uk/hms-argyll-upkeep-marks-start-of-type-23-life-extension.html |title=HMS ''Argyll'' upkeep marks start of Type 23 life extension |date=16 June 2015 |website=ADS Advance |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref> The ship, like her sisters [[HMS Monmouth (F235)|HMS ''Monmouth'']], [[HMS Montrose (F236)|HMS ''Montrose'']], [[HMS Lancaster (F229)|HMS ''Lancaster'']] and [[HMS Iron Duke (F234)|HMS ''Iron Duke'']], did not receive the new [[Sonar 2087]] upgrade that other frigates of the class subsequently received. Therefore she was regarded as a "general purpose" frigate without the more specialized anti-submarine capability of the other eight ships in the Type 23 fleet.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/what-is-the-purpose-of-the-towed-array-patrol-ship/ |title=What is the purpose of the Towed Array Patrol Ship? |last=Allison |first=George |publisher=UK Defence Journal |date=25 March 2019 |access-date=2 May 2023}}</ref>

''Argyll'' was retired and sold to [[BAE Systems]] for apprentice training in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allison |first=George |date=2024-05-14 |title=Two Royal Navy frigates to be retired|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/two-royal-navy-frigates-to-be-retired/ |access-date=2024-05-14 |work=[[UK Defence Journal]]|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |first=Kate |last=Tringham |date=16 May 2024 |title=UK Royal Navy Type 23 frigates Argyll and Westminster to retire |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/uk-royal-navy-type-23-frigates-argyll-and-westminster-to-retire |access-date=2024-05-17 |website=Janes.com |language=en}}</ref> However, this plan was subsequently abandoned and in September 2025 she was towed from Devonport to Portsmouth for disposal.<ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://x.com/NavyLookout/status/1967945258823753974?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet |title=@NavyLookout ex-HMS Argyll leaves Devonport for the final time - being towed to Portsmouth to be prepared for disposal. |number=1967945258823753974 |user=NavyLookout |date=16 September 2025 |access-date=18 September 2025}}</ref>

==Operational history==

===1991–2000===
On 26 March 1994, ''Argyll's'' [[Westland Lynx|Lynx helicopter]] crashed into the sea off [[Andros, Bahamas|Andros Island]] in the West Indies while practising for an air display. The crew escaped and were rescued but the aircraft was unrecoverable after sinking in 5,000ft of water.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ukserials.com/losses-1994.htm|title = UK Military Aircraft Losses}}</ref>

In 2000, ''Argyll'' was part of the [[Royal Navy]] task force – Task Group 342.01 – comprising {{HMS|Illustrious|R06|2}}, {{HMS|Ocean|L12|2}}, {{HMS|Iron Duke|F234|2}}, {{HMS|Chatham|F87|2}}, and four [[Royal Fleet Auxiliary|RFA]] ships – that deployed to [[Sierra Leone]] as part of the [[British military intervention in the Sierra Leone civil war]]. During those operations, ''Argyll'' acted as the West African Guardship and remained off West Africa until September 2000. Throughout this period ''Argyll'' operated with her Lynx HMA Mk 8 helicopter. The Lynx undertook daily patrols and searches. The Lynx was instrumental to the successful completion of Operation Barras. During her deployment, the helicopter was scrambled to search for a missing passenger ferry. The aircraft's crew quickly located the vessel and provided escort for ''Argyll''. ''Argyll'' saved fifty-eight lives from drowning. She was relieved by her sister-ship {{HMS|Iron Duke|F234|2}} in September.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.paviors.org.uk/affiliations/hmsargyll/summer2000.aspx |title=Summer 2000: Duties In Sierra Leone |website=The Worshipful Company of Paviors |date=28 November 2000 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080313003020/http://www.paviors.org.uk/affiliations/hmsargyll/summer2000.aspx |archive-date=13 March 2008}}</ref> During this incident ''Argyll'', assisted by HMS ''Ocean'', laid the foundation for the Iron Duke Community School. This is a school for orphans in Freetown. President Kabbah of [[Sierra Leone]] decreed the school be named after the crew of {{HMS|Iron Duke|F234|2}} for completing the construction of the six classrooms.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.navynews.co.uk/articles/2001/0102/1001022201.asp |title=''Iron Duke'' completes 33,000-mile voyage |date=26 February 2001 |newspaper=[[Navy News]] |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030307050147/http://www.navynews.co.uk/articles/2001/0102/1001022201.asp |archive-date=7 March 2003}}</ref>

===2001–2010===
In 2001, while in the [[Bay of Biscay]], ''Argyll'' suffered an electrical fire that was quickly put out by the ship's damage control team, with the ship suffering only minimal damage.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.navynews.co.uk/articles/2001/0104/0001040202.asp |title=Fire on board HMS ''Argyll'' |newspaper=Navy News |date=3 April 2001 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030501224819/http://www.navynews.co.uk/articles/2001/0104/0001040202.asp |archive-date=1 May 2003}}</ref>

''Argyll'' completed a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf protecting two oil platforms, working with the American, Australian and Iraqi Navies from February to August 2005.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.paviors.org.uk/affiliations/hmsargyll/august2005.aspx |title=August 2005: In Home Waters |website=The Worshipful Company of Paviors |date=24 August 2005 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080323114718/http://www.paviors.org.uk/affiliations/hmsargyll/august2005.aspx |archive-date=23 March 2008}}</ref> The ship made a short visit to [[Boulogne-sur-Mer|Boulogne]], then to its home port of [[Inveraray]] and finally to [[Liverpool]],<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.irishseashipping.com/photofeatures/services/RoyalNavy/argyll230306/argyll230306.htm |title=HMS ''Argyll'' Arrives on Merseyside |website=Irish Sea Shipping |access-date=3 November 2009 |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060518101152/http://www.irishseashipping.com/photofeatures/services/RoyalNavy/argyll230306/argyll230306.htm |archive-date=18 May 2006}}</ref> before undergoing Operational Sea Trials. ''Argyll'' successfully completed Operational Sea Training and acted as a contingency platform whilst [[Elizabeth II|the Queen]] spent a week sailing on the {{MV|Hebridean Princess||2}} in July 2006.

In September 2006 ''Argyll'' was deployed along with other ships such as {{HMS|Ocean|L12|2}} and {{HMS|Albion|L14|2}} where she completed two drugs raids on merchant ships totalling {{nowrap|£50 million}}. They completed their operation in November of the same year.

In October 2007 ''Argyll'' returned to the Persian Gulf to take over from her sister-ship, {{HMS|Richmond|F239|2}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gogibraltarsite.com/MediterraneanNavalNews.html |title=Naval News From Around The World |date=4 October 2007 |website=GoGibraltarSite.com |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071104133119/http://www.gogibraltarsite.com/MediterraneanNavalNews.html |archive-date=4 November 2007}}</ref>

On 3 April 2008 more than 500 friends and relatives welcomed HMS ''Argyll'' as she returned to her home at Devonport after a deployment lasting six months in the Northern Persian Gulf. This was ''Argyll''{{'}}s second Gulf deployment to Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 in three years. This deployment included one patrol which lasted 52 days from January to March 2008. HMS ''Argyll'' was also at the 'Meet Your Navy' exhibition at HMNB Portsmouth 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12249 |title=Warm Welcome for HMS Argyll's Return to Devonport |website=Royal Navy |date=31 March 2008 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080510044513/http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12249 |archive-date=10 May 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12311 |title=Hundreds Cheer HMS ''Argyll'' Home To the UK |website=Royal Navy |date=3 April 2008 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080510104830/http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12311 |archive-date=10 May 2008}}</ref>

6 May 2008 saw the crew return to ''Argyll'', with the crew bidding their commanding officer of seven months, Commander Gavin Pritchard, a fond farewell. Pritchard was succeeded by Commander Peter Olive. ''Argyll'' was then to engage in a period of trials and training before entering a period of maintenance in June.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12710 |title=HMS ''Argyll'' Returns to Work |website=Royal Navy |date=3 April 2008 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080609135831/http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12710 |archive-date=9 June 2008}}</ref>

11 May 2008 saw the Trans-Atlantic solo yacht race in Plymouth Sound started by the ceremonial cannon aboard ''Argyll''. Dame [[Ellen MacArthur]] also attended the start of the race and Rear Admiral Richard Ibbotson, head of the Flag Officer Sea Training organisation, was also on board ''Argyll''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12692 |title=HMS ''Argyll'' Starts Trans-Atlantic Yacht Race |website=Royal Navy |date=9 May 2008 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080510044500/http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12692 |archive-date=10 May 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12730 |title=HMS ''Argyll'' Launches Trans-Atlantic Yacht Race |website=Royal Navy |date=12 May 2008 |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080609043016/http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.12730 |archive-date=9 June 2008}}</ref>

On 21 July 2008 ''Argyll'' led the parade of [[tall ships]] out of Liverpool ahead of the [[Tall Ships Race]] starting 23 July.

On 18 February 2009, ''Argyll'' sailed from [[HMNB Devonport|Devonport]] as part of the [[Taurus 09]] deployment under Commander UK Amphibious Task Group, Commodore Peter Hudson, She was joined on this deployment by Landing Platform Dock {{HMS|Bulwark|L15|2}}, as Hudson's [[flagship]], Landing Platform Helicopter (LPH) {{HMS|Ocean|L12|2}}, [[Type 23 frigate]] {{HMS|Somerset|F82|2}} and four ships of the [[Royal Fleet Auxiliary]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.7202 |title=Taurus 09 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090325040331/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.7202 |archive-date=25 March 2009}}</ref> ''Argyll'' returned to Devonport on 17 April from this deployment.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-events/rn-live/all-news/argyll-returns-to-devonport/*/changeNav/6568 |title=''Argyll'' Returns To Devonport |date=17 April 2009 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090417204429/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-events/rn-live/all-news/argyll-returns-to-devonport/*/changeNav/6568 |archive-date=17 April 2009}}</ref>

In early October 2010, ''Argyll'' and her crew arrived in Plymouth after an 11-month refit which included 290,000-man-hours spent on modifications, upgrades and improvements."<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10>{{cite web |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/HmsArgyllArrivesHomeFollowingMajorRefit.htm |title=HMS ''Argyll'' arrives home following major refit |date=7 October 2010 |website=Ministry of Defence |access-date=26 January 2010}}</ref> She has received a new command system, upgrades to Sea Wolf, the Mod1 4.5-inch (114mm) gun, and mounts for new small calibre guns.<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10/> She was also given new boat-launching equipment.<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10/> "The refit included the replacing of two of the vessel's four diesel generators and one of her gas turbine engines."<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10/> Her ventilation system has been improved.<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10/> "Along with fresh paint on the upper decks she has been coated below the waterline with a special paint to prevent the build-up of sea life which would slow the ship. This also makes her more fuel-efficient."<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10/> HMS ''Argyll'' was the first Type 23 frigate to undergo a second major refit.<ref name=DefenceNews7Oct10/>

===2011–2021===
[[File:HMS Argyll at Royal Victoria Dock-ExCel.jpg|thumb|HMS ''Argyll'' moored in the Royal Victoria Dock for [[DSEI|DSEI 2017]].]]
On Sunday 22 January 2012 it was announced that ''Argyll'' was part of a six-ship convoy which sailed through the [[Strait of Hormuz]] alongside [[French Navy|French]] and [[United States Navy]] vessels, during a [[2011–12 Strait of Hormuz dispute|diplomatic dispute with Iran]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16701013 |title=Iran escalation 'could see UK forces sent to Gulf |date=24 January 2012 |publisher=BBC News |access-date=26 January 2012}}</ref> In a period after this she engaged in Exercise 'Goalkeeper' whilst still in the Middle East.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/defenceimages/7093859179/ |title=Royal Navy Type 23 Frigate HMS ''Argyll'' |date=8 September 2009 |website=[[Flickr]] |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

On 30 June 2012, [[Armed Forces Day]], she fired the salute in [[Plymouth]] as part of a steampast alongside {{ship|RFA|Mounts Bay|L3008|6}}, the [[Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex|Earl of Wessex]] was in attendance alongside the [[First Sea Lord]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/defenceimages/7474119966/ |title=Armed Forces Day National Event in Plymouth |date=30 June 2012 |website=Flickr |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/defenceimages/7474120256/ |title=Armed Forces Day National Event in Plymouth |date=30 June 2012 |website=Flickr |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

In 2013, she served a seven-month deployment to the Atlantic, having visited South Africa.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Frigates/HMS-Argyll/Diary/130530-Argyll-Visits-South-Africa |title=''Argyll'' Visits South Africa |date=30 May 2013 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130701005056/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Frigates/HMS-Argyll/Diary/130530-Argyll-Visits-South-Africa |archive-date=1 July 2013}}</ref> She also engaged in counter-narcotics work in the Eastern Pacific by travelling around [[Cape Horn]] and headed back to her home port via the Panama Canal.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/8615 |title=Two oceans in one day for HMS ''Argyll'' |date=20 August 2013 |newspaper=Navy News |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714184008/https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/8615 |archive-date=14 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2013/september/11/130911-hms-argyll-due-home |title=HMS ''Argyll'' due home from successful policing patrol |date=11 September 2013 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

In March 2014, she accidentally fired a test (unarmed) torpedo whilst training at [[HMNB Devonport|Devonport]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cornwall-26577109 |title=HMS ''Argyll'' navy torpedo fired into Devonport wharf |date=14 March 2014 |publisher=BBC News |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref> there were no injuries and minimal damage.

On 30 June 2014, she arrived in [[Hamilton, Bermuda]] for a three-day visit as part of her deployment to the North Atlantic and Caribbean.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://bermudasun.bm/Content/NEWS/News/Article/HMS-Argyll-returns-to-Bermuda/24/270/78786 |title=HMS ''Argyll'' returns to Bermuda |last=Burton |first=James |date=29 June 2014 |newspaper=[[Bermuda Sun]] |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

She arrived in [[Baltimore]], Maryland, US on 11 September 2014 to participate in ceremonies commemorating the 200th anniversary of the [[Star Spangled Banner]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2014/september/11/140911-hms-argyll-in-baltimore |title=Star studded arrival in Baltimore |date=11 September 2014 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

On 25 September 2014, she arrived in [[Veracruz (city)|Veracruz]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.elmercuriodeveracruz.mx/nota.php?id=6074 |title=El HSM ''Argyll'', Atracó en Veracruz |date=26 September 2014 |newspaper=El Mercurio de Veracruz |language=es |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

On 6 October 2014, HMS ''Argyll'' visited [[George Town, Grand Cayman]], after having been on counter-narcotics deployment in August 2014 as part of [[Operation Martillo]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.compasscayman.com/caycompass/2014/10/07/Navy-warship-visits-Cayman/ |title=Navy warship visits Cayman |date=7 October 2014 |newspaper=Cayman Compass |access-date=26 March 2019 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923205848/http://www.compasscayman.com/caycompass/2014/10/07/Navy-warship-visits-Cayman/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
From 9 to 13 October 2014 HMS ''Argyll'' paid an official visit to the Dominican Republic during the course of which her flight deck hosted the baptism of Stefania Rozsa, daughter of the British Ambassador.
On 18 October 2014, she arrived in [[Bermuda]] to provide assistance in the aftermath of [[Hurricane Gonzalo]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-29679079 |title=Hurricane Gonzalo: Bermuda 'bruised' by direct hit |date=19 October 2014 |publisher=BBC News |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

In 2014, a [[Westland Lynx|Lynx]] from ''Argyll'' identified a suspicious yacht in the [[Caribbean Sea]], and a detachment of the [[United States Coast Guard|U.S. Coast Guard]] operating from ''Argyll'' seized $16 million worth of cocaine found on the yacht. The group had seized an even larger shipment earlier on the same deployment.<ref name=drw>{{cite web |url=https://www.rotorandwing.com/2014/10/29/uscg-employs-lynx-helicopter-to-catch-cocaine-carriers/ |title=USCG Employs Lynx Helicopter to Catch Cocaine Carriers |last=Drwiega |first=Andrew |date=29 October 2014 |website=RotorAndWing.com |access-date=26 March 2019 |archive-date=26 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190326010156/https://www.rotorandwing.com/2014/10/29/uscg-employs-lynx-helicopter-to-catch-cocaine-carriers/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In 2015, ''Argyll'' underwent an extended Life Extension (LIFEX) refit in Devonport; she returned to sea in February 2017 with a new principal weapon system, [[Sea Ceptor]], and numerous modifications and alterations to her accommodation and working spaces.<ref>New life for Dukes ''[[Ships Monthly]]'' October 2015 page 14</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/hms-argyll-takes-to-the-seas-again-after-20-month-refit/story-30119158-detail/story.html |title=HMS ''Argyll'' takes to the seas again after 20 month refit |date=7 February 2017 |newspaper=[[The Herald (Plymouth)|The Herald]]}} {{dead link|date=March 2019}}</ref> ''Argyll'' acted as the trials vessel for Sea Ceptor prior to resuming her operational duties and it was announced in September 2017 that she had undertaken the first firings of the new system earlier in the summer off the west coast of Scotland.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2017/september/04/170904-defence-minister-announces-successful-first-firings-of-sea-ceptor-missiles |title=Defence Minister announces successful first firings of Sea Ceptor missiles |date=4 September 2017 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

In 2017, it was announced that ''Argyll'' would be sent to join military exercises in the Asia Pacific with the [[Five Power Defence Arrangements]] partners and also the [[Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/dsei-maritime-conference-2017 |first=Philip |last=Jones |author-link=Philip Jones (Royal Navy officer) |date=11 September 2017 |title=DSEI Maritime Conference |website=Ministry of Defence |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-security-and-defence-collaboration-with-japan-steps-up-a-level |title=UK security and defence collaboration with Japan steps up a level |date=31 August 2017 |publisher=[[Gov.uk]] |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref> Part of her mission is "to continue the pressure campaign on North Korea".<ref name=belfasttelegraph-20180213>{{cite news |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/uk/royal-navy-warship-to-sail-through-disputed-sea-off-china-defence-secretary-36599040.html |title=Royal Navy warship to sail through disputed sea off China – Defence Secretary |date=13 February 2018 |newspaper=[[Belfast Telegraph]] |access-date=13 February 2018}}</ref>

On 11 March 2019, ''Argyll'' rescued a 27-strong crew from a burning container vessel [[Grande America]] 150 miles off the coast of [[France]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-devon-47524010 |title=Navy crew saves 27 from burning ship |date=11 March 2019 |publisher=BBC News |access-date=11 March 2019}}</ref>

On 15 March 2019 the ship returned to [[HMNB Devonport]] after a nine-month deployment to [[Southeast Asia]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.justplymouth.com/hms-argyll-returns-from-nine-month-pacific-mission/ |title=HMS ''Argyll'' returns from nine-month Pacific mission |date=15 March 2019 |website=Just Plymouth |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref>

On 11 September 2019, she demonstrated the use of an autonomous PAC24 [[unmanned surface vehicle]], a modified version of the boat the ship already carries, at the [[DSEI|Defence and Security Equipment International 2019 exhibition]]. Also involved in the demonstration was an additional autonomous boat: the MAST-13.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title=HMS Argyll involved with autonomous tech trials |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/september/11/190911-hms-argyll-dsei |work=Royal Navy |location=London |date=11 September 2019 |access-date=11 September 2019 }}</ref>

In December 2020, the ship visited [[Egypt]] to allow for strategic talks between British First Sea Lord Admiral [[Tony Radakin]] and Egyptian Admiral [[Ahmed Khaled Hassan Saeed]].<ref name="n880">{{cite web | title=UK's First Sea Lord concludes visit to Alexandria | website=GOV.UK | date=2020-12-07 | url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uks-first-sea-lord-concludes-visit-to-alexandria | access-date=2025-02-27}}</ref> The ship took part in joint-exercises between Egypt and the UK.<ref name="m028">{{cite web | title=Egyptian, British naval forces carry out joint naval drill | website=Dailynewsegypt | date=2018-07-14 | url=https://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2018/07/14/egyptian-british-naval-forces-carry-out-joint-naval-drill/ | access-date=2025-02-27}}</ref><ref name="k552">{{cite web | title=Egypt and Britain 'conduct joint naval exercises' | website=Middle East Monitor | date=2018-07-14 | url=https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20180714-egypt-and-britain-conduct-joint-naval-exercises-2/ | access-date=2025-02-27}}</ref>

===2022–present===
In May 2022, ''Argyll'' became the first Type 23 to have undergone a LIFEX refit to undergo a subsequent major upkeep period, which saw the ship dry-docked for an extended period to enable it to be retained in service until around 2027-28, when it was intended to be replaced by either {{HMS|Glasgow|Type 26 frigate|6}} or {{HMS|Venturer|Type 31 frigate|6}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-frigate-hms-argyll-first-to-have-post-lifex-upkeep-period/ |title=Royal Navy frigate HMS Argyll – first to have post-LIFEX upkeep period |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=17 August 2022 |website=Navy Lookout |publisher= |access-date=17 August 2022 |quote=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |first=Kate |last=Tringham |date=18 August 2022 |title=Type 23 frigate HMS Argyll starts post-life extension upkeep |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/type-23-frigate-hms-argyll-starts-post-life-extension-upkeep |website=Janes |language=en}}</ref> In response to questions posed in Parliament, the Minister of State at the MoD, James Cartlidge, could not confirm that HMS ''Argyll'' would remain in service.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2024 |title=HMS Argyll and HMS Westminster |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2024-04-12.21265.h&s=%22Royal+Navy%22+section%3Awrans#g21265.r0 |website=They Work for You |language=en}}</ref> In May 2024, it was confirmed that the frigate would be retired and sold to [[BAE Systems]] to support apprentice training.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allison |first=George |date=2024-05-14 |title=Two Royal Navy frigates to be retired|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/two-royal-navy-frigates-to-be-retired/ |access-date=2024-05-14 |work=UK Defence Journal |language=en-GB}}</ref>

In 2022, ''Argyll'' spent just 21 days at sea.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Data reveals number of days warships spent at sea last year |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/data-reveals-number-of-days-warships-spent-at-sea-last-year/ |access-date=13 July 2023 |publisher=UK Defence Journal |date=1 June 2023}}</ref>

''Argyll'' had been scheduled to be withdrawn from service in 2023.<ref>{{cite hansard |title=Written Answers: HMS ''Argyll'' |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmhansrd/cm120906/text/120906w0001.htm#12090632000047 |house=House of Commons |date=6 September 2012 |column=386W |speaker=[[Andrew Robathan]] |position=[[Minister of State for the Armed Forces]]}}</ref> However, in 2021 in a written answer provided to the House of Commons Select Defence Committee, the First Sea Lord, Admiral Tony Radakin, suggested that older Type 23 frigates would be retained in service longer than anticipated in order to ensure that total escort numbers did not fall below 17 ships (6 destroyers and 11 frigates) and start to rise above 19 escorts starting in 2026. This would have required ''Argyll'' to have been kept in service significantly longer than anticipated.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/royal-navy-escort-fleet-to-return-above-19-warships-by-2026/ |title=Royal Navy escort fleet to 'return above 19' warships by 2026 |work=UK Defence Journal |last=Allison |first=George |date=24 November 2021 |access-date=26 November 2021 }}</ref>

However in May 2024, it was indicated that she would be retired and sold to BAE Systems for apprentice training instead (though this plan was subsequently abandoned and the ship was prepared for disposal).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allison |first=George |date=2024-05-14 |title=Two Royal Navy frigates to be retired|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/two-royal-navy-frigates-to-be-retired/ |access-date=2024-05-14 |work=UK Defence Journal |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2024 |title=HMS Argyll and HMS Westminster |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2024-04-12.21265.h&s=%22Royal+Navy%22+section%3Awrans#g21265.r0 |website=They Work for You |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://x.com/NavyLookout/status/1967945258823753974?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet |title=@NavyLookout ex-HMS Argyll leaves Devonport for the final time - being towed to Portsmouth to be prepared for disposal. |number=1967945258823753974 |user=NavyLookout |date=16 September 2025 |access-date=18 September 2025}}</ref>  This occurred despite the fact that in May 2022 she began an 18-month refit with the intent of extending her service life until about 2027-28.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/snapshot-the-royal-navy-escort-fleet-in-march-2023/ |title=Snapshot: The Royal Navy escort fleet in March 2023 |work=Navy Lookout |date=7 March 2023 |access-date=21 May 2023 }}</ref>

==Related images==
<gallery class="center" widths="210px" heights="140px">
File:HMS Argyll (F231) with Senegalese patrol vessel in 2013.jpg|HMS ''Argyll'' off Senegal, in 2013
File:Navydays Zeebrugge HMS Argyll 12-07-2009 17-12-03.jpg|HMS ''Argyll'' during Navydays Zeebrugge 2009
File:HMS_Argyll_GWS60_Harpoon_Missile_system_12-07-2009_17-04-43.jpg|[[Harpoon (missile)|Harpoon]] anti-ship missiles on ''Argyll''
File:Navydays_Zeebrugge_HMS_Argyll_12-07-2009_17-02-20.jpg|4.5-inch Mark 8 naval gun on board ''Argyll'' (prior to refit)
</gallery>

==Affiliations==
{{Importance section}}
HMS ''Argyll'' was affiliated with:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.1496 |title=Affiliations: HMS ''Argyll'' |website=Royal Navy |access-date=26 March 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090120145514/http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.1496 |archive-date=20 January 2009}}</ref>
* [[Torquhil Campbell, 13th Duke of Argyll|His Grace, The Duke of Argyll]]
* [[The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders]], 5th Battalion [[Royal Regiment of Scotland]]
* [[No. 47 Squadron RAF]]
* [[Argyll and Bute|Argyll and Bute District Council]]
{{Stack|[[File:Dollarcrest.jpg|thumb|upright|School Crest of the Dollar Academy, affiliate of HMS ''Argyll''.]]}}
* [[City of Glasgow (1975–1996)|City of Glasgow]]
* [[Worshipful Company of Paviors]]
* [[Plymouth Argyle F.C.]]
* [[Wendy Levene|Lady Levene]], the ship's sponsor
* {{HMS|Vivid|shore establishment 1957|6}} [[List of Royal Navy shore establishments#Current Royal Naval Reserve units and establishments|RNR]]
* Royal Naval Club, Argyll
* Royal Naval Association Stirling
* TS ''Argyll'' – Irvine & District Sea Cadets
* City of London Sea Cadets
* [[Mount Kelly School|Mount Kelly]], [[Devon]]
* [[Dollar Academy]], [[Clackmannanshire]]
* [[High School of Glasgow]]
* Argyll Ward, [[Derriford Hospital]]

In July 2017, [[GB Railfreight]] named locomotive [[British Rail Class 66|66775]] ''Argyll'' in honour of HMS ''Argyll'' in a ceremony at Devonport.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.justplymouth.com/royal-navy-warship-hms-argyll/ |title=Sailors celebrate as train named in honour of Plymouth warship HMS ''Argyll'' |date=12 July 2017 |website=Just Plymouth |access-date=26 March 2019}}</ref><ref>Class 66 naming honours military link ''[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]]'' issue 832 2 August 2017 page 10</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
*{{cite web |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/surface-fleet/frigates/type-23/hms-argyll |title=HMS ''Argyll'' |website=Royal Navy}}

{{Type 23 frigate}}
{{Royal Navy ships}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Argyll (F231)}}
[[Category:Frigates of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:History of Argyll and Bute]]
[[Category:Ships built on the River Clyde]]
[[Category:1989 ships]]
[[Category:Type 23 frigates of the Royal Navy]]