The Fearless class of ships are among the oldest commissioned ships in the Royal Navy. HMS FEARLESS was commissioned in 1965 and HMS INTREPID in 1967. They have, of course, undergone many refits since that time, but they have remained in service since that time. HMS INTREPID is currently in long-term reserve although she is capable of becoming servicable with one month's notice. It is unlikely that HMS INTREPID will, however, re-enter service unless the UK goes to war as both vessels are due to be decommissioned shortly.
Along with helping to land a Brigade strength amphibious assault group, the Fearless class ships are normally the flagships for the amphibious taskgroup. Such a taskgroup is normally led by a Commodore at sea (COMATG), although a General (of either the army or the Royal Marines) would usually take command of the troops once they have landed. An amphibious taskgroup would usually also include LSLs which are operated by the RFA and also such surface warfare vessels as are required as an escort.
Both HMS FEARLESS and HMS INTREPID were invaluable during the Falklands War, and this action helped prove their continuing ability to undertake amphibious warfare. HMS FEARLESS served as the flagship of COMAW (Commodore Mike Clapp) and was also the command platform for the Brigadier in charge of troops. HMS INTREPID was attached to COMAW and carried a substantial number of other troops and vehicles essential for the invasion.
The fact that it has taken so long for these ships to be replaced has been the source of some justifiable criticism. The role of LPDs remains invaluable in modern naval warfare and these two ships are now out of date, although their service history is unblemished. HMS FEARLESS and HMS INTREPID have played a major role in most amphibious operations since they entered service in the mid 1960s.
HMS FEARLESS and HMS INTREPID will be decomissioned in the first half of the next decade. They are to be replaced by two new LPDs, HMS ALBION and HMS BULWARK. These ships will be larger, although as a result of modern technology, their crew complement will be less than the Fearless class. The new class will also be able to serve as Flagships for Amphibious taskgroups. HMS ALBION and HMS BULWARK should enter service sometime in 2003. It is to be hoped that these two ships will serve with the same distinction as their illustrious predecessors.