HMS Diamond a testament to British investment, initiative and inspiration, says Shapps

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has praised Royal Navy Type 45 air defence destroyer HMS Diamond for her work in the Red Sea.

Writing in the Express, he said he was privileged to have seen "one of the crown jewels of the British forces" in person, adding that "HMS Diamond is a testament to British investment, initiative and inspiration".

Mr Shapps was recently welcomed on board the highly capable vessel to discuss her ongoing mission in the region.

• Defence Secretary discusses Red Sea mission on board one of the world's most advanced vessels
• HMS Diamond: Capabilities of the Type 45 destroyer thwarting Red Sea attacks
• HMS Diamond and US warships repel largest Houthi attack to date in Red Sea

During his visit, the Defence Secretary spoke to members of the ship's company about HMS Diamond's mission to destroy the Iranian-supplied missiles and drones that the Houthis are using to target shipping in the region.

Mr Shapps wrote: "As a Type 45 air defence destroyer, her value has been illustrated in recent weeks as the UK helps lead the fight against Iranian-backed Houthis hellbent on disrupting global trade in the Red Sea.

"Diamond, along with multiple new frigates and destroyers under commission, show how committed this Conservative Government is to the Navy – as we are to the Army and the Royal Air Force."

Mr Shapps told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that the professionalism he witnessed during his time on the ship was an "extraordinary thing to see".

HMS Diamond is a versatile and capable platform with the ability to carry out a wide range of warfighting and constabulary duties.

The Type 45 destroyer is one of the most advanced warships in the world.

HMS Diamond's primary role is to provide her fellow ships with air defence using the Sea Viper anti-air missile system, seen recently in action repelling attacks in the Red Sea.