HMS Trent’s Interlock 2023 mission is well underway, showcasing the Royal Navy’s commitment to fostering cooperation and strengthening maritime security across West Africa.
In a whirlwind month, this versatile patrol ship has not only visited but also conducted joint training exercises with naval and coast guard forces from The Gambia, Cape Verde Islands, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. This concerted effort aims to understand regional capabilities, address challenges, and share invaluable maritime security expertise.
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Focusing on Collective Security and Regional Prosperity
HMS Trent, utilising Gibraltar as her forward base, is set to spend the remainder of 2023 operating in and around West Africa, with a primary focus on safeguarding the collective security of waters through which approximately £6 billion of UK trade passes each year. This mission underlines the critical role that these waters play in both UK prosperity and regional security and stability.
Strengthening Security Through Training and Cooperation
During these visits, the ship’s crew, including Royal Marines, engaged in joint board-and-search training exercises with local security forces on land and at sea. The British team also shared vital skills in damage control, medical care, and engineering with their host nations, contributing to the development and improvement of capabilities in the region.
“The medical team thoroughly enjoyed working with the Gambian Navy to share understanding of first aid and practical aspects of medical care onboard warships,” remarked Trent’s Medical Officer, Surgeon Lieutenant Zara Dyar, highlighting the spirit of cooperation.
Building Strong Relationships and Sharing Tactics
In Cape Verde, the Royal Marines demonstrated high vertical assault and close-quarters drills, utilising Trent’s sea boats for tactical operations. This exchange of tactics has proven successful in the Caribbean and Arabian Sea, facilitating a valuable learning experience for both sides.
Lieutenant Max Tanner Royal Marines, explained that this was a really useful exercise that allowed his boarding specialist team to exchange working procedures with the Cape Verde force.
According to Tanner who oversees Trent’s commando detachment, “This was a really useful exercise which allowed my boarding specialist team to operate and exchange working practices and operating procedures with the Cape Verde force. The Cape Verde team were engaging, and we built strong relationships with them, which we hope to capitalise on moving forward.”
The crew of HMS Trent paid their respects at the civic cemetery in Mindelo, Cape Verde, a final resting place for nine Commonwealth Servicemen and merchant sailors from both world wars. Beyond their military and diplomatic activities, the ship’s company also visited the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, further strengthening bonds with the local community.
Commander Tim Langford, Commanding Officer of Trent, extended the ship’s commitment to engagement and collaboration. During the visit to Lagos, Nigeria, Trent hosted leading female tech advocates who learned about leadership and people-centric approaches. This outreach effort aims to foster enduring partnerships and underline the importance of people-driven leadership in building successful collaborations.
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Continuing the Interlock Mission in the Gulf of Guinea
HMS Trent’s Interlock deployment remains in full swing, with further engagements and visits planned with nations in the Gulf of Guinea. As this journey continues, it not only reinforces regional security but also showcases the Royal Navy’s dedication to global maritime cooperation and partnership building.
With each port visit and joint training exercise, HMS Trent and her crew are demonstrating the UK’s commitment to strengthening regional maritime security while forging lasting partnerships across West Africa. As the ship sails forward, it carries with it the lessons learned, relationships built, and the promise of a safer and more secure maritime environment for all.
