HMS Charger (P292)

Fast Inshore Patrol Vessel for the Coastal Forces Squadron, supporting Fleet and Maritime Tasking at home and abroad.

Role

The reforming of the ‘Coastal Forces Squadron’ has ushered in a new era of operational focus for the P2000 fleet of Archer Class vessels.

While support to University Royal Navy Units is still carried out whenever possible, as is navigational training, our focus is on the delivery of operational effect.

Archer Class

Capability

HMS Charger is a fast inshore patrol craft primarily focused in coastal waters but equally at ease in riverine or offshore areas.

Our high speed, endurance and ability to resupply in the smallest of harbours make us a versatile asset for the Royal Navy, capable of repositioning around the United Kingdom or abroad at short notice.

Crew

Led by Lieutenant Andrew Bonham, the crew of HMS Charger prides themselves on their versatility - projecting effect which punches above our weight, and extending our range to wherever we are required.

Unit history

1801

The First Charger

The first Charger was a gun-brig. Her weapons consisted of one 8-in mortar, ten 18-pdr carronades and two 18-pdr guns.

1830

The Second Charger

The next Charger was an old 733-ton wooden paddle packet.

1855

The Third Charger

The third incarnation of HMS Charger was a two-gun screw gunboat launched in 1855 – she saw service as a buoy boat.

1894

The Fourth Charger

This 290-ton destroyer built by Yarrow at Poplar and launched on 15 May 1894.

1988

The current Charger

Today’s ship was built by Watercroft Ltd in Shoreham-by-Sea and finished by Vosper Thornycroft.

1990

University unit

HMS Charger has been the University Royal Naval Unit (URNU) for Liverpool University since 1990.

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