Royal Navy Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond sailed into the capital city of the Philippines as the U.K. seeks to establish closer defence ties with the nation.
This week the British warship made a port visit to Manila as part of Operation Highmast, the U.K.-led Carrier Strike Group’s eight-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific. One of Highmast’s wider aims is to increase defence cooperation and boost trade between the U.K. and its Eastern allies.
It’s hoped joint naval operations between U.K. and Philippine assets are set to increase in the years ahead, particularly focusing on enhanced maritime awareness capabilities.
U.K. Defence Minister Lord Coaker was in Manila and paid a visit to HMS Richmond while she lay berthed in the Philippine capital.
The U.K. Government wants to strike a new Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) leading to increased defence activities involving the two nations, including joint naval operations and military exercises. Later this year, the U.K. intends to join Exercise SAMA SAMA.
Lord Coaker commented: “The U.K.’s relationship with the Philippines is strong and continues to flourish. Together we can help shape a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
“The deployment of the U.K. Carrier Strike Group to the Indo-Pacific reflects the importance of the region to U.K. security and prosperity. It has been a privilege to see cutting-edge defence innovation from both the U.K. and the Philippines.”
As per a recent U.K. Ministry of Defence press statement, the visit “reinforces the U.K.’s commitment to maintain a constant presence in the region, bolster Indo-Pacific security, and deepen trade relationships.”
Recently HMS Richmond conducted a Replenishment At Sea with Japanese helicopter carrier JS Kaga as part of Operation Highmast.
The eight-month Indo-Pacific mission has seen the Carrier Strike Group, led by Royal Navy flagship HMS Prince of Wales and involving 12 nations, pass through the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Indian Ocean visiting Singapore, Australia, Japan and other Asian countries.
Over the course of the deployment, upwards of 4,500 British military personnel will be involved, including nearly 600 RAF and 900 soldiers alongside 2,500 Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines.
- You can read more details on the U.K. Government website