The Royal Navy and Gulf Operations

The Persian Gulf is an area of considerable strategic importance. The UK has strong political and commercial and trading links with the region including a large expatriate community. A maritime presence is one of the principal means by which we can demonstrate our continuing commitment to enduring peace and stability in the region, with particular emphasis on the restructuring of Iraq.

Units of the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary have been on patrol in the Gulf since October 1980, after the Iran/Iraq conflict of that year.

The present Royal Navy permanent contribution consists of an escort, supported by a tanker of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, within the Operational area (which includes the Gulf, Gulf of Oman and Northern Arabian Sea) at all times. Whilst not always specifically nominated a second Frigate or Destroyer is at notice to reinforce this presence if required.

Additionally units such as Aircraft Carriers, Escorts, Survey Vessels, Submarines and Mine Countermeasures Vessels also deploy to the region for finite periods in support of operations and for regional exercises.

The patrol has, since 1980, provided a continuous maritime presence and demonstration of the UK’s commitment to the Gulf. It provides an important element of the MOD’s defence diplomacy activity in the Region, providing reassurance to friendly Gulf States through visits and bilateral training with Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) Navies.

It also supports UK strategic objectives towards the restructuring of Iraq through the conduct of Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIOPS) and patrolling as part of the continuing coalition efforts to aid the country. Having previously been an occupying power, we had particular responsibilities for the integrity of territorial waters, and UNSCR 1546, combined with letters to the Security Council from Prime Minister Allawi and Secretary Powell, provides the legal base for the continuing presence of UK forces in Iraq as part of the Multinational Force.

In addition, the patrol exercises regularly with units from the United States and GCC navies, as well as with other nations operating within the region further developing mutual co-operation and understanding.

The countries that comprise the Gulf Co-operation Council states are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Oman.

A CVS group will occasionally deploy to the Gulf where the tailored embarked Air Group, which could include Joint Force Harrier elements, makes a contribution to air operations in the region. Additionally, Mine Countermeasures Vessels (MCMVs) deploy to the Gulf to exercise and maintain their skills in the unique environmental conditions that the region presents, and ships of the Hydrographic Squadron conduct surveys to update charting information.

HMS Montrose is currently the Gulf Patrol ship, conducting Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIOPS) in support of UNSCR.

Maritime and Riverine Assistance Support Team

Conceived in July 2003, the M+RAST has gone from strength to strength. The original six-man team assisted in the formation of the Basra River Police. Today the team stands at 31 Royal Navy & Royal Marines Personnel and operates throughout Basra Province along 380 km of internal waterways, mentoring the Iraqi Riverine Patrol Service., (IRPS). Read More …