Launched in June 1986, HMS Archer is the lead ship of the Archer class. She is the training vessel of the Edinburgh University Royal Naval Unit (URNU).

Since 2012, HMS Archer has been giving members of the Edinburgh University Royal Naval Unit their first taste of Navy life.The syllabus is based primarily around leadership, navigation and seamanship, and also provides opportunities for travel, both around the UK and overseas, and for personal development. Upon a successful first year of training, members are awarded the honorary rank of Midshipmen.