Royal Navy officer promoted by US Navy man on board US Navy destroyer on international op
A Royal Navy officer has been promoted by a senior US Navy officer on board a US warship while involved in a multinational operation.
Jonty Sutton, who has served 26 years in the Royal Navy, was promoted from sub lieutenant to lieutenant in front of the crew on the USS Mason, an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer.
Lt Sutton was given his new rank by Captain David Coles, the US Navy officer in charge of Operation Prosperity Guardian.
"Lieutenant Sutton’s expertise and his 26 years of experience in the Royal Navy have been vital to Operation Prosperity Guardian’s success," said Captain Coles.
Lt Sutton is assigned to the US destroyer as a liaison officer from HMS Diamond.
Both missile destroyers are currently engaged in Prosperity Guardian, a new operation which began shortly before Christmas to deter attacks on merchant ships from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Operation Prosperity Guardian already has the support of 20 countries.
"Multiple countries being present highlights that this is a world issue and shows all of our commitment to reassuring and protecting merchant ships," said Lt Sutton.
Several shipping companies have had to divert their ships around Africa rather than risk a Red Sea transit.
The operation is led by Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153), run by the US out of Bahrain in the Gulf.
CTF 153 is one of five task forces involving nearly 40 nations committed to ensuring the safety of merchant ships in international waters.
"It was truly an honour for Combined Task Force 153 and me to take part in this special day for our coalition teammate," said Capt Coles.
Having joined the Royal Navy at age 20, Lt Sutton reached the rank of chief petty officer before being selected for the role of warfare officer.
He is now seeking to qualify as an officer of the watch by completing 600 hours on the bridge.
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