HMS Diamond (D34) Royal Navy Ship Tea Coffee Mug Gift

HMS Diamond (D34) is the third ship of the Royal Navy's six **Type 45 (Daring-class)** air-defence destroyers, built by BAE Systems, launched in 2007, and commissioned in 2011. Displacing around 8,500 tonnes and measuring 152 metres in length, she is powered by integrated electric propulsion for speeds exceeding 30 knots and primarily equipped with the Sea Viper (PAAMS) missile system using Aster missiles, SAMPSON multi-function radar, a 4.5-inch gun, and facilities for a Wildcat helicopter, excelling in air defence, maritime security, and task group protection. Diamond gained prominence during a high-intensity 2023–2024 deployment to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, where she shot down nine Houthi drones and one anti-ship ballistic missile—the first such Royal Navy interception since 1991—while protecting international shipping. Relieved by HMS Duncan in mid-2024 and returning home in July 2024, she entered refit as part of the Power Improvement Project (PIP) to address propulsion issues. As of early 2026, Diamond remains in refit at Portsmouth, undergoing upgrades to enhance reliability ahead of future operations.