Article Posted on : - Aug 12, 2010

The Royal Navy frigate HMS Montrose. Photo: UK MoD.

DEVONPORT (BNS): The Royal Navy frigate HMS Montrose will join a NATO-led task group at the Horn of Africa and the Somali Basin for participating in counter-piracy operations.

The Type 23 frigate will also be employed in general maritime security operations, all the while remaining ready for any other crisis response tasking that may be required at any time.

A team of Royal Marines will also take part in the mission, which has experience in counter-piracy capabilities, including the ship's Lynx helicopter and rigid inflatable boats.

The ship and its crew will get refit and intensive training for the deployment, ensuring and challenging operational sea training.

"With the refit and extensive training, the ship's company has spent most of this year preparing for this deployment. Every member of my team is looking forward to the chance to make a difference in the region,” HMS Montrose Commanding Officer, Commander Jonathan Lett, said in an official news release.

HMS Montrose is equipped with the latest weapons, sensors and communication systems, including the air defence Seawolf missile system, a 4.5 inch (114.3mm) gun, anti-submarine torpedoes, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, Lynx helicopter and a crew of 174 officers onboard.