HMS Defender escorts ocean liner through potentially dangerous sea lanes

The Type 45 destroyer has been providing escort duties through the Gulf of Oman.

She may look small in comparison, but the warship has an array of deadly weaponry and radar tracking systems to ensure the safe passage of the luxury ship through the potentially dangerous sea lanes.

The day before HMS Defender escorted the RMS Queen Elizabeth. Defender’s Commander Steve Higham said: ‘This was an excellent opportunity to reassure high-profile merchant shipping in the Gulf of Oman and beyond, while at the same time promoting Royal Naval engagement.’