Portsmouth based Type 23 frigate HMS Lancaster will visit the British Overseas Territory of Anguilla this weekend as part of her six-month deployment to the North Atlantic and Caribbean.
Lancaster, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Queen’s Frigate’ after her sponsor Her Majesty The Queen, will visit all six of the British Overseas Territories in the region as well as numerous Commonwealth and Caribbean countries in order to conduct regional defence engagement. These visits will provide the opportunity to train with other navies as well as demonstrate the Royal Navy’s continued commitment to the region.
As well as providing reassurance and security for British overseas territories Lancaster’s deployment will also see her undertake a range of other tasks across the Caribbean in support of British interests. These include the provision of humanitarian aid and disaster relief during the core hurricane season and counter narcotic operations with partner nations.
HMS Lancaster’s Commanding Officer, Commander Steve Moorhouse, said: “I am extremely proud of my Ship’s Company who have worked tirelessly over the last 18 months regenerating Lancaster from refit and preparing her for this demanding deployment. After months of rigorous training, Lancaster is ready to take her place on the front line of naval operations. Although working primarily in the Caribbean region with a wide range of island partners and South and Central American nations, we will, in the best traditions of the Royal Navy, be ready to respond to whatever challenges may arise over the next 6 months.”
The crew of HMS Lancaster are especially looking forward to the Anguilla visit as it will be the first time to the island for many of the sailors. The opportunity to explore the wonders of a new Caribbean island, sample it’s culture and meet with the locals will provide the crew with a well earned rest in between high tempo operations.
The ship will remain in Anguilla until Monday, July 8.
For further information about HMS Lancaster please visit www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-fleet/ships/frigates/HMS-Lancaster
