UK Navy’s most ‘advanced destroyer’ docks in VI

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Regarded as the Royal Navy’s most advanced destroyer, HMS Dauntless docked in Road Town, Tortola on September 11, 2023, and will reportedly be in the VI’s waters this week as part of a routine visit.

Whilst here, the crew will meet with members of the National Security Council, host a disaster exercise, and conduct an on-water search and rescue exercise.

Governor John J. Rankin, CMG in a statement spoke of the might of HMS Dauntless.

“HMS Dauntless is the Royal Navy’s most advanced destroyer,” Governor Rankin said, adding that the vessel has been deployed to the Caribbean to support British Overseas Territories during hurricane season and to counter drugs trafficking in the region.

He said HMS Dauntless recently seized 1.2 tonnes of cocaine worth an estimated $175m while patrolling an area in the Caribbean Sea and that the ship’s Wildcat helicopter, Royal Marines and the US Coast Guard were all deployed to intercept the suspect boat.

“The team aboard HMS Dauntless will meet with key partners to ensure that they are ready to respond effectively should their support be required.

Safety & security of VI people ‘is my top priority’- Rankin

“The safety and security of the people of the Virgin Islands is my top priority. We must all remain prepared this hurricane season, and I am grateful that HMS Dauntless has been able to visit to demonstrate the assistance it can provide,” Governor Rankin stated.