ROYAL Naval warships HMS Argyll and HMS Portland met in the Caribbean while deployed on operations.

HMS Argyll and HMS Portland, both Plymouth-based, met off the coast of Puerto Rico to transfer essential stores and took the opportunity to conduct ship manoeuvring training. HMS Portland’s Executive Officer, Lt Cdr Rob Brann, said: ”Our deployment has seen great operational success and has shown the versatility of a deployed Royal Navy warship and the value she can add to strengthen defence relations and demonstrate the UK’s ongoing international commitment.”

HMS Argyll is at the start of her six month Atlantic Patrol North deployment to the region whereas HMS Portland is now making her way back to Devonport Naval Base in Plymouth following a wide-ranging Atlantic Patrol South deployment.

HMS Argyll has deployed to the Caribbean region to provide reassurance and, if required, humanitarian aid and disaster relief support to the UK’s British Overseas Territories and other islands during the hurricane season. The ship will also conduct counter narcotics patrols in conjunction with the US Coast Guard to enhance regional security and deter illicit activity.

Her sister ship is now nearing the end of her seven-month deployment, during which she has undertaken significant defence engagement with other countries and maritime security operations in four continents. She has successfully worked with many other navies across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and has conducted a period of counter narcotics patrols in the Caribbean.