The UK’s combat vessel built for the Royal Navy HMS Defender has come alongside in Istanbul this morning, according to a statement from the British Consulate General in Istanbul.
The combat vessel sailed from the Port of Portsmouth on 1 May, as part of the UK led Carrier Strike Group. The Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen has also joined in HMS Defender in Istanbul.
Whilst in the city, HMS Defender will host a reception and capability demonstration and dinner, welcoming onboard representatives of the Turkish government, business world, armed forces and defense sector.
“It is a great privilege to have the opportunity to represent Global Britain in Istanbul. Turkey is an important partner and NATO ally, and I am very much looking forward to welcoming representatives from the Turkish government, business world, armed forces and defense sector onboard to show them what we are capable of,” said Vince Owen, the Commanding Officer of HMS Defender.
The combat vessel contributed to Operation Sea Guardian, the NATO maritime security operation aimed at working with Mediterranean stakeholders to maintain maritime situational awareness, deter and counter terrorism and enhance capacity building, while it crossed the Mediterranean.
