Portsmouth-based HMS Dragon leaves city for operation in the Gulf

PORTSMOUTH based HMS Dragon left her home port earlier this evening to embark on an operational deployment to the Gulf.
Picture: Royal NavyPicture: Royal Navy
Picture: Royal Navy

The Type 45 destroyer is scheduled to work alongside coalition and regional partners throughout her time away.

She will be focused on providing regional maritime security, including counter-terrorism and anti-smuggling activities.

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Commander Michael Carter-Quinn, commanding officer of HMS Dragon, said: '˜Today's departure on operations has been achieved through the hard work and support of my ship's company, their families and the wider defence enterprise in ensuring that we are materially and mentally ready to meet any of the challenges that we may face over the coming months.'

Picture: Royal NavyPicture: Royal Navy
Picture: Royal Navy

The ship left later than planned.

At 1.38pm the Twitter account for HMS Dragon tweeted: '˜So sorry to all those waiting to wave us off but we are delayed until later today.

'˜Unfortunately we had a small issue that is best resolved alongside rather than after sailing. Very much hoping to be away this evening, but we'll keep you informed. Sorry again #gutted.'

It had departed by 6.30pm with families of loved ones on board waving the ship off.