Navy and Marines take on mission to West Africa

ROYAL Navy crews have been teaching counterparts in West Africa how to target smugglers and pirates as part of a long-term mission in the region.

- CARL EVE

The patrol ship HMS Trent is currently deployed on a long-term basis to Mediterranean and African waters and, in her second deployment to the Gulf of Guinea, worked with coastal West African nations to disrupt illegal activity and promote security along busy shipping lanes.

HMS Trent deployed with a specialist Royal Marines boarding team and a Puma surveillance drone as, alongside allies and partners, they worked to develop skills and techniques required to counter illicit activity that ultimately harms the prosperity of African nations and disrupts shipping that brings trade to UK shores.

Commander Tim Langford, HMS Trent's Commanding Officer, said: "It has been a privilege for us to work with our partner nations and to demonstrate the Royal Navy's commitment to improving maritime security in the region."