Tri-Service
£15M Naval Base Under Construction In Bahrain
The Foreign Secretary has attended a ceremony to mark the start of construction work on a new Royal Navy base in Bahrain.
Philip Hammond was accompanied by navy personnel, including sailors from minehunter HMS Bangor and support ship RFA Cardigan Bay, for the groundbreaking ceremony at Mina Salman Port.
The facility is being developed to support Royal Navy deployments in the Gulf through the creation of a permanent and improved base.
Mr Hammond said: "The beginning of construction work at Mina Salman Port marks a watershed moment in the UK's commitment to the region.
"The presence of the Royal Navy in Bahrain is guaranteed into the future, ensuring Britain's sustained presence east of Suez. The new facility will enable Britain to work with our allies to reinforce stability in the Gulf and beyond."
General Sir Richard Barrons, commander, joint forces command, said: "This is a reflection of the continued cooperation and engagement between the Bahrain Defence Forces and the UK armed forces.
"We welcome the continued support from Bahrain which enables the Royal Navy to operate in the Gulf region."
The base is expected to be able to host the Queen Elizabeth class and Type 45 destroyers as well as frigates and minehunters.
The Foreign Secretary said the base represented a watershed moment for Britain's presence in the region.
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