The second of Britain’s next-generation destroyers yesterday began her maiden deployment as HMS Dauntless departed Portsmouth on a bright but chilly spring morning. The Type 45 destroyer is heading for six months in the South Atlantic, taking over from the current patrol ship, Devonport-based frigate HMS Montrose.
Although this is D33’s first mission, Whitehall is at pains to stress this is a routine South Atlantic deployment.
She will maintain a continuous presence protecting British interests in the region, carrying out maritime security operations off West Africa and the wider South Atlantic.
Her programme includes planned port visits in both West and South Africa.
It’s the first operational deployment for Dauntless since she was commissioned into the fleet in 2010. Since then she has been put through an intensive period of sea trials and training to prepare her for operations.
Her Commanding Officer, Captain Will Warrender , said:
“HMS Dauntless’ ship’s company has been working extremely hard over the last year or so to prepare for our first operational deployment.
“We are now ready to provide a reassuring presence in the region and protect British interests.”
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , April 05, 2012; Image: royalnavy