The boarding team from Type 23 frigate HMS Monmouth during maritime approach and assist operations in the Arabian Gulf.

As part of her commitment to Maritime Security in the Gulf, HMS Monmouth regularly conducts maritime Approach and Assist visits to dhows and other small craft working in the area.

The prime purpose of these visits is to help local fishermen and other mariners in need of assistance, while also providing reassurance that the Royal Navy and other coalition warships in the area are there to keep the region free of piracy.

These visits are conducted by the Ship’s “blue” boarding team, consisting of volunteers from the Ship’s Company, in conjunction with the “green” boarding team of embarked Royal Marines. During these visits, the boarding teams will discuss the challenges faced by the small boats operating in the region and are often able learn the sort of valuable grass roots information that the Ship’s sophisticated sensors are unable to detect.

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