From Royal Navy

Two Plymouth based Type 23 frigates have met up in the Caribbean while deployed on operations.

HMS Argyll and HMS Portland met off the coast of Puerto Rico to transfer essential stores and took the opportunity to conduct ship manoeuvring training.

HMS Argyll is at the start of her six month APT(N) deployment to the region whereas HMS Portland is now making her way back to Devonport following a wide ranging APT(S) deployment.

HMS Argyll has deployed to the Caribbean region to provide reassurance and, if required, humanitarian aid and disaster relief support to the UK’s British Overseas Territories and other islands during the hurricane season.

She will also conduct counter narcotics patrols in conjunction with the US Coast Guard to enhance regional security and deter illicit activity.

HMS Portland meanwhile, is now nearing the end of her seven month deployment, during which she has undertaken significant Defence Engagement and maritime security operations in four continents.

She has successfully worked with many other navies across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and has conducted a period of counter narcotics patrols in the Caribbean.

HMS Portland’s Executive Officer, Lt Cdr Rob Brann, said; ”Our deployment has seen great operational success and has shown the versatility of a deployed Royal Navy warship and the value she can add to strengthen Defence relations and demonstrate the UK’s ongoing international commitment.”

HMS Portland was built on the Clyde and was launched by the Ship’s Sponsor, Lady Heather Brigstocke on 15 May 1999. HMS Portland was commissioned into the Royal Navy on 3 May 2001.

For more on this story go to: http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2014/july/22/140722-argyll-meets-portland