HMS Kent joins US in Arctic
HMS Kent joined two American destroyers, a nuclear submarine, support ship and long-range maritime patrol aircraft above the Arctic Circle to hone skills in challenging environmental conditions.
Commander Matt Sykes, Commanding Officer of the Plymouth-based frigate , said: ‘Conducting an exercise in the Arctic Circle is a new challenge for the ship’s company whose dedication and professionalism in preparing for this exercise have been impressive.
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Hide Ad‘The challenges of working in this extreme environment should not be underestimated.’
For the exercise, HMS Kent has linked up with Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Donald Cook and USS Porter, fast combat support ship USNS Supply, an American P8-A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, and a US nuclear-powered submarine.
More than 1,200 military personnel from the two nations are involved – conducting key training in support of the UK’s Defence even while the UK Armed Forces are supporting the fight against COVID-19.
Both the UK and the US are committed to ensuring no nation dominates the Arctic region, which is assuming growing importance in the face of increased activity and melting polar ice.
The Arctic exercise comes on the back of Anglo-US anti-submarine warfare training in UK waters just a few weeks ago, when the two allies linked up to help train future boat commanders undertaking the Royal Navy’s world-renowned Submarine Command Course – also known as Perisher.
It’s the second time in two months that the Royal Navy has tested its ability to operate in the challenging conditions off the Norwegian coast. In March, Kent’s sister frigate HMS Sutherland pitted herself against a Norwegian submarine.
Lieutenant Georgia Harding, HMS Kent’s Principal Warfare Officer for underwater warfare, said: ‘This exercise is the culmination of a high intensity period of anti-submarine warfare training that has seen a step change in HMS Kent’s readiness to conduct operations.
‘Being able to work with US Navy ships, submarines and aircraft is an excellent opportunity to further hone our skills in a challenging environment.’
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