HMS Defender to join efforts to support safe passage of Gulf shipping

Type 45 destroyer HMS Defender will join the Royal Navy’s efforts to support the safe passage of shipping in the Middle East.

The Government confirmed earlier this month that the Royal Navy has been tasked to accompany British-flagged ships through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC).

This deployment will ensure that the UK has the flexibility to continually commit a vessel to the international mission.



Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Wherever the red ensign flies around the world, the UK stands by to protect freedom of navigation whenever is it tested.



“The men and women of HMS Defender will contribute to the IMSC alongside international partners.”



Portsmouth-based HMS Defender will ensure the continuous availability of a ship to reassure and accompany merchant vessels.