HMS PLYMOUTH was the final Type 12 Rothesay Class anti-submarine frigates to enter service with the Royal Navy. Built at HM Dockyard, Devonport she was launched in July 1959 and completed in 1961. The hangar and helicopter deck were added later in 1969 when one of the ASW mortars was removed.
She had top speed of 29 knots and displaced 2,800 tons. Dimensions 112.7 m x 12.5m x 3.9m.
The ship saw service during the Falkland's War in 1982. Her Wasp helicopter engaging the Argentine Navy submarine Santa Fe which was subsequently grounded by her crew becoming the first Argentine casualty of the war.
The Argentine forces on South Georgia surrendered in her wardroom - see photograph above.
She was withdrawn from service in 1989 and after a period of time on display at Millbay Docks Plymouth, she was moved to Birkenhead for dry docking and subsequent display in 1992.
