09 August 2011

Lock Up Your Women, the Royal Navy is... Oh. Uh, Never Mind...

The Royal Navy has appointed their first female warship commander.

The Royal Navy has appointed a woman to command a frigate for the first time.

Lieutenant Commander Sarah West, 39, will take command of HMS Portland in April 2012. She has previously commanded four minehunters.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said Lt Cdr West would complete a commanding officer designate course before taking up the position.

Women have been able to serve in the Royal Navy since 1994 and now make up just under 10% of the force.

They remain barred from some areas of service, such as the Royal Marine Commandos.

Lt Cdr West's previous naval experience has included serving in the Gulf.

h/t MM

By: Brant

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