Royal Navy nuclear submarine returns home after 201 days under the sea, the ... trends now
A Royal Navy nuclear submarine has returned to base after a staggering 201 days submerged deep beneath the waves.
HMS Vengeance slipped back into Faslane on the Clyde on Monday following the marathon patrol, finally allowing her exhausted sailors to set foot on dry land.
Their hide-and-seek mission began on August 29 last year when the Vanguard-class craft gently glided under the surface of the North Sea.
At any time over the past seven months, the captain – who cannot be named for security reasons – could have been called upon to launch a Trident missle, Britain's nuclear deterrent. But now the 132-strong crew face arguably the biggest challenge of all, readjusting to everyday life.
For the duration of the patrol, they were unable to contact their families, see sunlight or eat fresh food. Defrosted oranges and dried egg powder featured prominently in their staple diet.
The Royal Navy's fourth and final Vanguard-class submarine - HMS Vengeance
HMS Vengeance trurning home to Faslane on March 17 after 201 days at sea
On what was one of the longest Royal Navy submarine operations ever undertaken, their lives were measured out in six-hour shifts – while their days and nights were spent squeezed into a 491ft-long metal tube.
They had their sleep disrupted, were deprived of fresh air and many suffered vitamin deficiencies. Common health issues among submariners include ear problems, joint disorders and an increased risk of certain cancers. Though, experts say the biggest trial was being cut off from their loved ones.
While 'attack' submarines do rise to the surface of the ocean during their missions and give their crews some respite in the process, ballistic missile vessels known as 'bombers' remain hidden on the seabed.
And as bomber submarines are 'receive only' vessels, they could read heavily vetted 'family grams' from the outside world but never respond –
