#OperationProsperityGuardian

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HMS Duncan: Royal Navy Deployment to Red Sea

The Royal Navy warship HMS Duncan has departed from Portsmouth, embarking on a critical mission to protect shipping lanes in the Red Sea from Houthi attacks. This deployment, part of the multinational Operation Prosperity Guardian, is essential to maintaining the safety and security of one of the world's most vital waterways.  

New Type 45 Destroyer HMS Duncan at sea. Photo by Defence Images. Flickr.  

HMS Duncan and HMS Diamond

A Seamless Transition HMS Duncan, a Type 45 destroyer, is equipped with the advanced Sea Viper missile system and sophisticated radar technology. This deployment follows HMS Diamond’s successful mission, where it intercepted nine drones and one missile targeting commercial vessels. As Duncan replaces Diamond, the Royal Navy ensures continued vigilance and protection in the region.   Key Capabilities of HMS Duncan: - Sea Viper Missile System: Effective against aerial threats. - Advanced Radar Systems: Capable of detecting distant targets with precision. - Highly Trained Crew: Prepared through rigorous trials and training.  

Operation Prosperity Guardian

Operation Prosperity Guardian, led by the United States, is a collaborative effort involving multiple nations, including the United Kingdom, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain. This task force aims to counter the rising threat of Houthi attacks, ensuring the free flow of global trade through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb strait.   Participating Nations and Roles: - United Kingdom: Deploying HMS Duncan and HMS Diamond. - United States: Leading the task force. - France, Italy, Netherlands, and Others: Providing naval support and intelligence.    

HMS DUNCAN. The captain's chair on the bridge. Photo by Gordon Milligan. Flickr.   The Current Situation in the Red Sea The Red Sea has witnessed an alarming increase in attacks on commercial vessels by Houthi rebels. These attacks include drone strikes, missile launches, and attempted boardings, posing a significant threat to international shipping. Since October 2023, there have been over 47 separate incidents, necessitating a robust international response.   Types of Attacks: - Drone Strikes: Targeting cargo ships. - Missile Launches: Anti-ship ballistic and cruise missiles. - Boarding Attempts: Illegal seizures of vessels.   Threat Description Impact Drone Strikes Unmanned aerial vehicles targeting ships Disruption of shipping, potential damage Missile Launches Ballistic and cruise missiles Threat to vessel integrity, crew safety Boarding Attempts Unauthorized boarding of ships Cargo theft, crew hostage situations   HMS Duncan's Mission: Ensuring Maritime Safety HMS Duncan's mission is to provide a stabilizing presence in the Red Sea, ensuring the safety of merchant vessels and maintaining freedom of navigation. The crew, comprising 200 men and women, has undergone extensive training and preparations to tackle the challenges ahead.   Mission Objectives: - Protection of Shipping Routes: Preventing Houthi attacks on commercial vessels. - Maritime Security: Collaborating with international forces to secure the region. - Crew Preparedness: Ensuring readiness through continuous training and exercises.  

HMS DUNCAN 2013 ships' bell. Photo by Gordon Milligan. Flickr.   Broader Implications for Global Trade Securing the Red Sea is crucial for global trade, as approximately 11% of the world's trade transits through this strategic waterway. The multinational effort under Operation Prosperity Guardian aims to create safe maritime corridors, akin to the protection provided during the "Tanker War" of the 1980s.   Impact on Global Trade: - Enhanced Security: Reducing the risk of attacks on merchant vessels. - Economic Stability: Ensuring uninterrupted flow of goods. - International Cooperation: Strengthening alliances and collaborative efforts. Closing Thoughts HMS Duncan’s deployment to the Red Sea marks a significant step in ensuring the security of one of the world's most critical shipping routes. Through this mission, the Royal Navy, alongside international partners, is committed to maintaining maritime safety and protecting global trade from the escalating threat of Houthi attacks. As HMS Duncan takes on this vital role, the importance of international cooperation and readiness in safeguarding maritime routes cannot be overstated. The efforts of the Royal Navy and its allies are crucial in preserving the freedom and safety of the seas. Stay informed about the latest developments in maritime security and international efforts to protect global trade by following THX News.   Sources: THX News & Ministry of Defence. Read the full article

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UK Mission Bolsters Gulf Security

In a dynamic shift toward stabilizing volatile tides, the UK navigates through turbulent geopolitical waters. Moreover, Lord Tariq Ahmad's recent sojourn to the Gulf isn't just routine diplomacy; it's a critical maneuver aimed at reinforcing the pillars of regional and global trade security.  

Steering Through Uncertain Seas

Navigating Challenges The UK's Middle East Minister, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon, recently touched down in Bahrain, embarking on a significant mission with profound implications not just for regional politics but for the arteries of global commerce that pulse through the Gulf. This visit—part of a broader UK strategy—focuses on reinforcing alliances, deterring threats, and fostering peace in a region marred by conflict and instability.   Strategic Engagements: - Bahrain: Here, discussions spanned from securing maritime lanes to enhancing military collaborations, amidst the bustling backdrop of the UK's Naval Support Facility. - UAE: The dialogue broadened to humanitarian and peace-building efforts, marking a deep dive into geopolitical strategy with potential ripple effects across continents.  

Anchoring Stability in Choppy Waters

Operation Insights: - Operation Prosperity Guardian and Operation Poseidon Archer stand as bulwarks against regional threats, primarily the Iran-backed Houthi forces. These missions underscore the UK's commitment to safeguarding not only regional but global shipping lanes—a vital lifeline for international trade. - Maritime Security: With the Royal Navy ships HMS Diamond and HMS Richmond at the helm, the UK's tactical presence in strategic waters aims to quell the tides of aggression, ensuring that the pulse of global commerce remains uninterrupted.   Impact on Global Trade The security of these waters is not just a regional concern but a global imperative. The Gulf's strategic maritime routes are crucial conduits for oil, commerce, and economic stability worldwide. By fortifying these channels, the UK not only strengthens its own economic interests but also upholds international peace and economic stability.   Charting a Course Towards Peace Diplomatic Dialogues: The talks are not merely about immediate threats but also about fostering long-term stability through dialogue and development. This includes pressing for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, advocating for humanitarian aid corridors, and supporting peace initiatives in Sudan. - Humanitarian Efforts: In collaboration with UAE partners, the UK is pushing to amplify its humanitarian response, endeavoring to ease the humanitarian crises in conflict zones, particularly Gaza. - Peace Initiatives: The ongoing efforts are a testament to the UK's broader foreign policy ethos—committing to peace, security, and the sustainable development of conflict-ridden regions.   The Road Ahead: A Path Lined with Hope and Vigilance As Lord Ahmad articulates, the mission is clear: "At this critical period, we must do all we can—including working with key partners—to strengthen regional stability and security and push for de-escalation." The UK's proactive stance in the Gulf is not just about diplomatic talks but about building a foundation for enduring peace and stability.   Looking Forward The outcomes of these discussions are crucial as they lay the groundwork for future diplomatic and economic engagements. Consequently, with the UK, Bahrain, and the UAE at the forefront, there is a cautious optimism that this tripartite alliance can foster a more stable and prosperous Middle East.  

In Conclusion

As the UK steers this course of complex diplomatic engagements, the ultimate goal remains clear: to secure a pathway to peace that is not only sustainable but also inclusive, ensuring that the future of global trade and regional stability are intrinsically linked and mutually reinforcing. This mission, pivotal as it is, serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our modern world, where regional security is synonymous with global prosperity.   Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon. Read the full article

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U.S.-Kenya Security Partnership Strengthens

A Strategic Alliance in Defense

In a significant meeting at the Pentagon, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Kenyan Defense Minister Aden Bare Duale reaffirmed the robust partnership between the U.S. and Kenya. This encounter underscores a deepening cooperation on security issues, months after a landmark defense cooperation framework was established during Austin's visit to Nairobi.  

Key Pillars of Partnership

Austin highlighted Kenya's vital role as a strategic ally in East Africa and its broader contributions to regional and global security. Additionally, the focus was on shared threats, including the fight against al-Shabab, an Islamist militant group wreaking havoc in Somalia and Kenya. Furthermore, the partnership extends to joint efforts in countering terrorism, bolstering maritime security, and supporting international peace initiatives.   Combating Terrorism Together The menace of al-Shabab, responsible for deadly attacks in Nairobi, underscores the critical nature of U.S.-Kenya collaboration. Austin praised Kenya's commitment to combating this threat alongside U.S. efforts, reflecting a mutual resolve to ensure regional stability.  

Beyond Regional Concerns

Austin also commended Kenya's participation in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and Operation Prosperity Guardian, initiatives that underscore Kenya's role in addressing security challenges beyond its borders. This involvement highlights the global scope of the U.S.-Kenya partnership.   A Future of Joint Endeavors Both Austin and Duale voiced their commitment to strengthening this strategic alliance further, emphasizing its importance in addressing immediate security challenges and promoting long-term peace and stability. Their discussions signal a future of continued cooperation and shared objectives in defense and humanitarian assistance.  

A Partnership of Global Impact

The U.S.-Kenya defense partnership is a testament to the countries' shared dedication to fostering security and stability, not just in East Africa but globally. As both nations continue to work together, their strategic alliance is set to play a pivotal role in addressing contemporary security challenges and promoting peace.   Sources: THX News & US Department of Defense. Read the full article

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HMS Richmond Takes the Helm in Red Sea Security

A Seamless Transition at Sea

The Royal Navy's HMS Richmond is set to continue the vital mission of ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, taking over from HMS Diamond. Furthermore, this changeover comes at a crucial time, as Houthi attacks against commercial vessels persist, threatening the safety and security of international shipping lanes. The dedication of the Royal Navy to protecting these waters underscores the UK's commitment to maritime security and the global economy.  

HMS Diamond's Valiant Efforts

HMS Diamond has been at the forefront of Operation Prosperity Guardian, demonstrating exceptional resilience and capability in the face of adversity. Additionally, the destroyer's engagement with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, resulting in the successful neutralization of nine drones, showcases the effectiveness of the Sea Viper missile system. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining a robust defense posture in high-threat areas.   A Commitment to Maritime Security The UK's proactive stance in the international arena, which includes participation in Operation Prosperity Guardian and conducting targeted strikes against Houthi military targets, reflects a comprehensive approach to safeguarding commercial shipping. Furthermore, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps's acknowledgment of HMS Diamond's contribution underscores the nation's resolve to uphold freedom of navigation and protect innocent lives at sea.   HMS Richmond: Equipped for the Task Ahead HMS Richmond, armed with the Sea Ceptor missile system and an array of weaponry, stands ready to address the challenges of safeguarding the Red Sea's extensive maritime domain. Moreover, the integration of a Wildcat helicopter equipped with Martlet anti-ship missiles further enhances the ship's operational capabilities. This ensures that HMS Richmond is a formidable force against potential threats.  

A Continuous Vigil

The Royal Navy's commitment to maritime security is a testament to the skill, dedication, and agility of its personnel. HMS Diamond's seamless handover to HMS Richmond illustrates the continuity of efforts to maintain peace and security in one of the world's most crucial maritime corridors. With HMS Richmond now at the helm, the Royal Navy remains a pivotal force in deterring aggression and ensuring the safe passage of international shipping.   Sources: THX News, Ministry of Defence & The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP. Read the full article

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UK PM Outlines Yemen Conflict Strategy

Exact transcript of the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Speech to the House of Commons on the Combined Attack on the Houthi military targets in Yemen. I would like to update the House on the action that we took on Thursday night against Houthi military targets in Yemen. Since 19 November, Iran-backed Houthis have launched over 25 illegal and unacceptable attacks on commercial shipping in the Red sea, and on 9 January they mounted a direct attack against British and American warships. They fired on our ships and our sailors—it was the biggest attack on the Royal Navy for decades—and so we acted. We did so in self-defence, consistent with the UN charter, and to uphold freedom of navigation, as Britain has always done. Alongside the United States, with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada and the Netherlands, we ordered the RAF to strike two Houthi military facilities in Yemen. I want to be clear that these were limited strikes. They were carefully targeted at launch sites for drones and ballistic missiles to degrade the Houthis’ capacity to make further attacks on international shipping. I can tell the House today that our initial assessment is that all 13 planned targets were destroyed. At the drone and cruise missile base in Bani, nine buildings were successfully hit. A further three buildings were hit at Abbs airfield, along with a cruise missile launcher caught in the open. We have seen no evidence thus far of civilian casualties, which we took great care to avoid. I know the whole House will join me in paying tribute to the incredible bravery and professionalism of all our servicemen and women. The need to maximise the security and effectiveness of the operation meant that it was not possible to bring this matter to the House in advance, but we took care to brief Members—including of course you, Mr Speaker, and the Leader of the Opposition—before the strikes took place, and I have come to the House at the earliest possible opportunity. I do not take decisions on the use of force lightly. That is why I stress that this action was taken in self-defence. It was limited, not escalatory. It was a necessary and proportionate response to a direct threat to UK vessels, and therefore to the UK itself. Let me be absolutely clear why the Royal Navy is in the Red sea. It is there as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian, protecting freedom of navigation as a fundamental tenet of international law. The Houthis’ attacks on international shipping have put innocent lives at risk. They have held one crew hostage for almost two months, and they are causing growing economic disruption. Global commerce cannot operate under such conditions. Containers and tankers are having to take a 5,000-mile detour around the Cape of Good Hope. That pushes up prices and imperils the passage of goods, foods and medicines that the British people and others rely on. We have attempted to resolve this through diplomacy. After numerous international calls for the attacks to stop, a coalition of countries gave the Houthis a clear and unambiguous warning two weeks ago. Last week, the UN Security Council passed a resolution condemning the attacks and highlighting the right of nations to defend their vessels and preserve freedom of navigation, yet the Houthis continued on their reckless path. We should not fall for the Houthis’ malign narrative that this is about Israel and Gaza—they target ships from around the world. We continue to work towards a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and to get more aid to civilians. We also continue to support a negotiated settlement in Yemen’s civil war, but I want to be very clear that this action is completely unrelated to those issues. It is a direct response to the Houthis’ attacks on international shipping. We should also recognise the risks of inaction. It would weaken international security and the rule of law, further damage freedom of navigation and the global economy, and send a dangerous message that British vessels and British interests are fair game. There is another point here, which is often overlooked. The Houthis’ attacks risk worsening the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen itself. The UK helps to feed around 100,000 Yemenis every month, with aid arriving via the very sea routes that the Houthis have in their sights. The threats to shipping must cease. Illegally detained vessels and crews must be released, and we remain prepared to back our words with actions. But dealing with that threat does not detract from our other international commitments; rather, it strengthens our determination to uphold fundamental UN principles. If our adversaries think they can distract us from helping Ukraine by threatening international security elsewhere, they could not be more wrong. On Friday, I travelled to Kyiv to meet President Zelensky and address the Ukrainian Parliament. I took a message from this House to the Rada that we will stand with Ukraine today, tomorrow and for as long as it takes. If Putin wins in Ukraine, he will not stop there, and other malign actors will be emboldened. That is why Ukraine’s security is our security. That is why the UK will stay the course, and it is why I am confident that our partners share our resolve. Far from our resolve faltering, our military support to Ukraine will increase this year. We will provide the biggest single package of defence aid to Ukraine since the war began, worth £2.5 billion. That will include more air defence equipment, more anti-tank weapons, more long-range missiles, thousands more rounds of ammunition and artillery shells, training for thousands more Ukrainian servicemen and women, and the single largest package of advanced drones given to Ukraine by any nation. All of that is on top of what we have already provided to support Ukraine. In total, since the war began, the United Kingdom will have provided almost £12 billion of aid to Ukraine. We were the first to train Ukrainian troops, the first in Europe to provide lethal weapons, the first to commit main battle tanks, the first to provide long-range missiles, and now we are the first to keep the promise made at last year’s NATO summit, alongside 30 other countries, to provide new bilateral security commitments. Ukraine’s rightful place is in NATO, and NATO will be stronger with Ukraine in it, but these commitments will help bridge the gap until that day comes. Under the new agreement that we signed with President Zelensky, we are building Ukraine’s military capabilities; and if Russia ever invades Ukraine again, we will provide swift and sustained assistance, including modern equipment across land, air and sea. Together with our allies, the UK will be there from the first moment until the last. For all of this, I bring a message of thanks from President Zelensky to the British people. Today, I hope that the House will join me in sending a message back to the Ukrainian people: that we stand together as one in support of these firm commitments. We are building a new partnership with Ukraine, designed to last 100 years or more. Yes, it is about defence and security, but it is also about trade, investment, culture and more. There could be no more powerful sign of our unique bond than Ukraine’s decision to adopt English as the language of business and diplomacy. So, through the British Council, we are going to fund English language training for the Ukrainian people. In dangerous times, we are investing in defence, hardening our critical infrastructure and building our alliances. We are resolute in our principles: international security; the rule of law; and freedom to determine your own future. An attack on those principles is an attack on everything that we believe in and on which our lives and livelihoods depend. As the home of parliamentary democracy and a leader in collective security, it is our responsibility to defend those principles and to defend our people. That is who we are. That is what Britain does and will always do. I commend this statement to the House.   Sources: THX News, Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street & The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP. Read the full article

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HMS Diamond Joins Operation Prosperity Guardian

  Royal Navy's Critical Role in Maritime Security

The Royal Navy Destroyer HMS Diamond has recently joined Operation Prosperity Guardian, a crucial international task force dedicated to ensuring the freedom of navigation in the strategic waters of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This deployment comes in response to ongoing Houthi attacks against commercial vessels, highlighting the increasing need for robust maritime security measures.  

International Efforts to Secure Trade Routes

Operation Prosperity Guardian is not a solitary effort. Alongside HMS Diamond, the task force includes three US destroyers and a French warship, all operating in the Southern Red Sea. This multinational partnership, with support from countries like Bahrain, Norway, and the Seychelles, focuses on protecting freedom of navigation, international trade, and human life by countering illicit non-state actors in international waters.   Addressing the Escalating Red Sea Threat The security situation in the Red Sea has deteriorated significantly, with Houthi attacks – including the use of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial systems against global shipping – posing an increased threat. These incidents have had a direct impact on global trade, leading major operators like Maersk and BP to pause sailing through the region. This pause not only increases costs but also adds significant time to journeys, underlining the urgent need for enhanced security measures.   Global Coalition Response to Maritime Threats In a recent virtual meeting with approximately 20 Defence Ministers from around the globe, including the US, the urgent need for a coordinated international response to these maritime threats was discussed. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized the need for an international solution to these illegal attacks, which pose a severe threat to the global economy and regional security, and risk driving up fuel prices.   HMS Diamond's Active Involvement in the Region HMS Diamond's deployment in the Red Sea, following Defence Secretary Grant Shapps's authorization, marks a significant step in the UK's commitment to maritime security. One of the Royal Navy's most advanced warships, HMS Diamond has already demonstrated its capabilities by shooting down a suspected attack drone targeting merchant shipping in the region.   Ensuring the Safety of Vital Global Trade Routes The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden are crucial global trade routes, particularly for tankers carrying liquefied natural gas to the UK. Protecting these routes is vital not only for the UK's energy security but also for the smooth functioning of international trade. HMS Diamond's presence, along with other ships in the task force, ensures the safety and security of these essential maritime pathways.   Sources: THX News, Ministry of Defence & The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP. Read the full article

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HMS Diamond Crew Congratulated for Red Sea Patrol

A Beacon of Security in the Red Sea

The HMS Diamond, a jewel in the Royal Navy's crown, has recently been spotlighted for its exceptional service in patrolling the Red Sea. Armed Forces Minister James Heappey's visit to the ship in Gibraltar underscores the UK's commitment to maritime security and the pivotal role the crew has played in ensuring the safety of international shipping lanes.

A Mission of Tenacity and Bravery

Defending Global Commerce Under the banner of Operation Prosperity Guardian, HMS Diamond embarked on a critical mission to safeguard merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden from illegal Houthi attacks. This deployment not only showcases the Royal Navy's capability but also its dedication to maintaining freedom of navigation in some of the world's most vital maritime corridors. A Testament to Technical Prowess During its deployment, HMS Diamond successfully neutralized nine drones using its sophisticated Sea Viper missile system and onboard guns. These victories are now symbolically represented by 'victory marks' on the ship's flank, a testament to the crew's skill and the ship's cutting-edge technology.

A Visit of Acknowledgment

Ministerial Praise Minister Heappey's visit to HMS Diamond while docked in Gibraltar for resupply was more than a routine check. It was a profound acknowledgment of the hard work and resilience displayed by the crew. The Minister's engagement with the ship's company and command underscores the government's appreciation and support for their relentless effort in protecting international trade. Supporting Roles The role of British Forces Gibraltar in providing logistical support to HMS Diamond and, by extension, to Operation Prosperity Guardian, highlights the strategic importance of Gibraltar as a defense hub. This collaboration is essential for the seamless execution of missions that have global implications.

The Broader Context

Collaborative Defense HMS Diamond's operations in the Red Sea are part of a larger international effort to combat threats to maritime security. Alongside HMS Diamond, the task force comprises US destroyers and a French warship, illustrating the power of collaboration in ensuring the safety of the seas. Transition and Continuity With HMS Richmond taking over duties from HMS Diamond, the mission's continuity is assured. This transition demonstrates the Royal Navy's adaptability and commitment to the ongoing protection of maritime interests against evolving threats.

Looking Ahead: A Global Defense Network

The successful operations of HMS Diamond in the Red Sea, complemented by the strategic support from British Forces Gibraltar, exemplify the UK Defence's global reach and responsiveness. As the UK continues to invest in its global hubs, including Gibraltar, it reinforces its position as a leader in international security and defense. The crew's achievements aboard HMS Diamond are not just a series of successful missions but a clear message of the UK's resolve to maintain peace and security on the international stage. Their bravery, skill, and dedication set a high standard for naval operations worldwide, ensuring that the seas remain open and safe for all.   Sources: THX News, Ministry of Defence & The Rt Hon James Heappey MP. Read the full article