The Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigate will visit the British Overseas Territory later this week – the third port on her deployment after first stopping in Bermuda and then Key West, Florida.
Lancaster, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Queen’s Frigate’ after her sponsor Her Majesty The Queen, will visit all six of the British Overseas Territories in the region as well as numerous Commonwealth and Caribbean countries in order to conduct regional defence engagement.
These visits will provide the opportunity to train with other navies as well as demonstrate the Royal Navy’s continued commitment to the region.
HMS Lancaster’s Commanding Officer, Commander Steve Moorhouse, said:
“The Cayman Islands are the second of the UK overseas territories that Lancaster will visit during her 6 month deployment to the Caribbean.
“I am looking forward to working with Governor’s Office, the emergency services and the people of the Cayman Islands during the visit so that when we return to sea we are in the best possible position to support the islands and respond swiftly and effectively in the event of a hurricane or any other emergency.”
As well as providing reassurance and security for British overseas territories Lancaster’s deployment will also see her undertake a range of other tasks across the Caribbean in support of British interests.
These include the provision of humanitarian aid and disaster relief during the core hurricane season and counter narcotic operations with partner nations.
During Lancaster’s visit to Key West the ship’s company hosted local military officers and dignitaries for a Reception and Capability Demonstration and the evening ended with the Royal Navy’s traditional ceremonial sunset.
No trip would be complete without some friendly rivalry on the sports field and Lancaster took the opportunity to compete against local teams in football, rugby and golf.
The crew of HMS Lancaster are now looking forward to the Cayman Islands visit as it will be the first time to the island for many of the sailors.
The opportunity to explore the wonders of a new Caribbean island, sample it’s culture and meet with the locals will provide the crew with a well earned rest in between high tempo operations.
[mappress] Press Release, June 19, 2013; Image: Royal Navy