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HMS Sutherland destined for Asia-Pacific from 2018

Published on: 24 Nov 2017

HMS Sutherland will head to the Asia-Pacific region in a bid to strengthen relations with allies from the start of 2018.

This will make it the second warship to venture across the Indian Ocean and into the Pacific, representing UK interests. 

In a period of ongoing tension in the Korean peninsula, the Type 23 Frigate will be available to work closely with Britain’s regional partners - including the US, Japan and South Korea - and participate in joint training and exercises.

HMS Argyll will also deploy to Japan to take part in exercises in December 2018 following participation in a five power defence arrangements exercise with Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia earlier in the year.

Defence secretary Gavin Williamson commented: “Our already strong defence ties with allies in the Asia-Pacific area will be deepened further by this deployment.

“At a time when North Korea’s illegal weapons programme is causing global concern, the deployment of these two Royal Navy ships is a clear demonstration of the UK’s commitment to the peace and prosperity of the region.”