Portsmouth frigate joins the battle againt Isil extremists

HMS St Albans has linked up with Charles de Gaulle French Carrier Strike Group (CSG).

St Albans will be providing protection for the carrier while she launches airstrikes on terrorists in Syria and has already shown off her prowess during an exercise to hunt and fight submarines.

St Albans’ commanding officer, Commander Richard Hutchings, said: ‘HMS St Albans’ rapid integration into the French strike operations against Daesh is symbolic of the UK’s solidarity and proof of the close relationship between the two nations’ military forces.’

The Type 23 frigate has already encountered the french carrier during a trip to Toulon three weeks before the Paris attacks.

HMS St Albans will be on operations until the summer.