U.S. Navy mine countermeasures ships operated alongside mine countermeasures vessels from the Royal Navy and Royal Saudi Naval Force.
The exercise lasted from June 6th-21st.
According to the U.S. Navy, the training consisted of realistic mine hunting simulations where participating units practiced detecting and classifying training aids shaped like mines while following standardised mine hunting procedures.
“This training provides a perfect opportunity for the U.S. Navy and our Coalition and regional partners to strengthen our mutual interoperability in addition to refining and developing our mine countermeasures methods and tactics,” said Capt. Jeffrey Morganthaler, Commodore of Combined Task Force 52.
Participating ships included the USS Dextrous and USS Gladiator, HMS Brocklesby and RSNF vessel Al-Shaqra.
“As mines threaten maritime traffic indiscriminately, it is crucial that we focus our combined efforts on addressing threats to freedom of navigation in the region,” said Vice Adm. James Malloy, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, in a news release.
“Working with regional partners, this is an excellent opportunity to not only sharpen skills, methods and tactics, but also further strengthens capability to operate as an effective coalition”, said Captain Don Crosbie Royal Navy, Deputy Commander Task Force 52.
HMS Brocklesby’s commanding officer, Lieutenant Commander Chris Easterbrook Royal Navy added:
“We are focused on ensuring that we use every opportunity to train closely with our regional partners. We look forward to these activities as a way to deepen our own skills and at the same time the experience reinforces our capability to work as part of an effective coalition.”
I have worked on all of those ships at one time or another over the years.
AL Shaqra I worked with for a long time. A good crew who know their stuff with some great stories to keep you entertained in your off time.