First Minister and Welsh Secretary pay visit to HMS Dragon

HMS Dragon is moored in Cardiff until Sunday. Credit: ITV Wales

The Welsh Secretary David Jones and First Minister Carwyn Jones visited the Royal Navy ship HMS Dragon in Cardiff today.

The Type-45 destroyer is in the capital until Sunday to receive the Freedom of the City.

It is only the tenth time since 1886 - when records began - that the honour has been given to a public body.

The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit in Newport this September.

James Crichton-Smith reports:

Some quick HMS Dragon facts:

  • She's one of six Type 45 destroyers in the Royal Navy

  • She can travel at a speed of 27 knots

  • She has a crew of 190

  • She can carry a Lynx or Merlin helicopter

HMS Dragon's Sea Viper Anti-Air Missiles are housed below these hatches. Credit: ITV Wales
The bridge of HMS Dragon. Credit: ITV Wales
The captain's chair on HMS Dragon. Credit: ITV Wales
HMS Dragon's position (black circles) in Cardiff. Credit: ITV Wales