HMS Kent Finishes Cold-Weather Operations In The Arctic Circle

HMS Kent has left the Barents Sea after seven days of cold-weather operations in the Arctic Circle.

The ship has continued to contribute to the Royal Navy's global operations to ensure the country is prepared to face possible future threats despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

"While sailors and marines in the UK support the national effort against COVID-19, the ship’s company of HMS Kent are hard at work ensuring that the Royal Navy remains capable of operating in the most challenging environments fundamental to the UK’s vital interests," Rear Admiral Simon Asquith, the Royal Navy's Commander Operations, said.

HMS Kent has been working as part of a combined US and UK task group, aiming to further the integration with allies while also showing to be able to work in sub-zero temperatures.

"It has been rewarding to work in this part of the world and it is vitally important that the UK should take a strong interest in maintain stability and security in the region," Commander Matt Sykes said.

"Over the last week, we have enhanced our ability to work with our US allies while also demonstrating the Royal Navy’s ability to operate in the region, now and in the future."

Destroyers USS Donald Cook, USS Porter and USS Roosevelt, as well as fast-combat support ship USNS Supply worked alongside HMS Kent in the Arctic Circle.

More than 1,200 military personnel from both the United Kingdom and the United States were involved in the key training operations.

"It has been interesting to work in the Arctic region but also surprisingly normal. It has shown me that our training really does prepare us for anything," Engineering Technician Cameron Warren said.

The crew of HMS Kent commemorated the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day with a special remembrance service on her flight deck.

Commander Sykes' grandfather, Chief Petty Officer Frank Hodges, served on HMS Edinburgh in the Arctic Convoys.

"It has been a privilege to operate my own ship in the same area as my great-grandfather and it is only fitting that we took time to pause and remember all of those who fought in this challenging, but also beautiful, place."

Over the past 12 months, HMS Kent has operated around the world, from the Gulf to the North Atlantic.

Cover image: HMS Kent and a US vessel in the Arctic earlier this month (Picture: MOD).