On the 2nd of February 2025, Gibraltar’s naval base hosted a significant event with the arrival of HMS Anson, the Royal Navy’s newest and most advanced nuclear-powered submarine. This marked HMS Anson’s first visit to Gibraltar since entering service in 2024, following a period of extensive sea trials. The submarine, part of the Astute-class fleet, is renowned for its cutting-edge design and powerful nuclear reactor, highlighting Gibraltar’s continued strategic importance to the United Kingdom’s naval operations.

The arrival of HMS Anson was widely observed by ship spotters and reported by both local and international media. While the event underscored the close military ties between Gibraltar and the UK, it also drew criticism from Spanish environmental groups, who voiced concerns about the presence of nuclear-powered vessels in the region. Despite these concerns, local authorities assured the public that strict safety protocols were in place to manage any potential risks associated with the submarine’s visit.