Fourth Royal Navy vessel in 12 months visits Japan

HMS Montrose, a Type 23 Frigate, will be the fourth Royal Navy vessel to visit Japan in 12 months, say the Royal Navy.

While in the region, HMS Montrose will monitor illegal ship-to-ship transfers of key imports and exports as part of the international campaign against North Korea, according to the Royal Navy.

“During her deployment, announced by Prime Minister Theresa May during a visit by her Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe, the ship will follow in Argyll’s footsteps of taking part in anti-submarine warfare alongside the Japanese Navy (Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force).”

Commander Conor O’Neill, commanding officer of HMS Montrose, said:

“HMS Montrose is looking forward to deploying further into Asia, heading deeper into this important region.

As we prepare to take the baton from our sister ship HMS Argyll, we are seized of the opportunities that our presence offers, both to contribute to the maintenance of peace and security at sea and ashore, and to enhance the UK’s interests and relationships in this fascinating and complex region.”

After recently visiting South America and the Pitcairn Islands (a British overseas Territory in the Pacific), the frigate is on her way to be forward-deployed in the Middle East.

According to the Royal Navy, the Plymouth-based will be based in the region for more than three years, although her ship’s company will rotate to the vessel and home again beginning in Spring 2019.

This forward-deployment reportedly serves two purposes – to demonstrate UK commitment to maritime security in the Gulf “while also ensuring those on board can enjoy more stability in their home lives”, say the Royal Navy.