Escorting passing Russians continued over Christmas....
With respect to recent talk of cuts of amphibious capabilities, including both the numbers of Royal Marines and the Landing Platform Docks (HM Ships
Albion and
Bulwark), I think it worth noting how amphibious forces are part of our commitment to NATO.
Royal Navy’s Assault Ship sails to lead NATO Task Group
This new tasking fulfills a vital contingency role for NATO in the Mediterranean. The task group will protect NATO interests by promoting security and stability in the region whilst offering options for NATO to deal with any emergent tasking.
Over the coming months, HMS Albion will undertake presence and security operations as well as conducting multi-national exercises aimed at increasing the way the navies of the task group work together.
The commander of SNMG2, Commodore Mike Utley, said: “Our role in NATO sits right at the heart of British Government policy to reinforce our commitment to international partners and their broader security.
"What better way for the UK to contribute than to lead this task group from HMS Albion - I am immensely proud to command such a highly professional and internationally diverse force.’’