HMS ARGYLL  was completed in Glasgow in 1991

HMS ARGYLL and RICHMOND operations and visits
ARGYLL completed first patrol of 6 month deployment and visits Doha while RICHMOND visits Romania...

 

HMS Argyll has now completed her first operational patrol of her 6-month deployment. Having spent over 30 days in the Northern Arabian Gulf, providing protection to the two Iraqi oil platforms, those Ship’s Company who do not already have it are now qualified for the Operation Telic campaign medal.

During the patrol, the ship regularly acted as a command unit, controlling smaller ships around one or the other of the two oil platforms, Abot and Kaaot, through which pumps most of Iraq’s oil exports. Routine patrols and security check boardings were broken up by interaction with local fishing vessels and regular exercises to hone the skills of the detachment of Iraqi Marines onboard the platforms. The Ship’s Company also took every chance to practice their own drills, including firing of the ship’s close range weapons systems.

Argyll also had the opportunity to host Commander of Joint Operations (CJO), Lieutenant General JNR Houghton CBE. During his brief visit to the ship, Lieutenant General Houghton gained an insight into the work being done by the Royal Navy as part of the coalition effort in Iraq and was also impressed by the professionalism and effort of everyone on-board.

After over a month at sea, a short operational standoff in Doha, Qatar, provided an ideal opportunity to rest and recharge our batteries. A rapidly developing city, with excellent facilities, provided the ideal backdrop to socialise and relax and the Ship’s Company enjoyed the excellent hospitality of the Rugby Club and the local Hash House Harriers, as well as the use of facilities at the Intercontinental Hotel. The Ship’s rugby team again impressed under the captaincy of Logistician (Catering Services) Sam Romang. A hard fought game, played in good spirits and watched by many supporters from the ship, saw Argyll lose narrowly 15-14 against the experienced Doha side.

HMS RICHMOND  was completed at Swan Hunter, Tyneside in 1996

 

Meanwhile HMS Richmond conducted a successful routine visit to Constanta, Romania 2 – 5 December 2007 during which time they briefed members of the Romanian Naval Headquarters Staff on the Operational and Logistical aspects of HMS Richmond's recent deployment to the Gulf.

Speaking about the visit, HMS Richmond’s Commanding Officer, Commander Piers Hurrell Royal Navy, said, “I am thrilled to be able to continue to foster the strong links between our Navies”. He added “I am delighted that we were able to relate our recent experiences to our fellow colleagues as they continue to integrate their forces further into NATO”.

As well as briefing the Romanian Naval Staff the ship hosted the Prefect of Constanta County, Romanian Naval Fleet Commander, and the Head of International Relations.

HMS Richmond has spent the previous 6 months on-station in the North Arabian Gulf patrolling critical Iraqi oil infrastructure. She will be conducting Maritime Security Operations until she is due to return to her home port of Portsmouth shortly before Christmas.