Royal Navy team takes the helm of key security mission defending Gulf shipping from Iranian attack
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A team led by Commodore James Parkin, of Hampshire, has taken charge of the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC) at its Bahrain-based HQ.
It’s the first time British sailors have been at the helm since the international alliance was launched in November.
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Hide AdThe military coalition was set up to counter Iranian naval aggression in the Straits of Hormuz, where four tankers and British-flagged oiler Stena Impero was seized last summer.
Commodore Parkin, commander of the UK’s amphibious force the littoral strike group, took over from US Rear Admiral Alvin Holsey.
Cdre Parkin said: ‘The UK is committed to ensuring the safety of shipping in the Gulf region, which contains some of the most important choke points in the world. We recognise the importance of freedom of navigation and will ensure it is upheld.’
The Senior Service increased its presence in the Gulf last year where forward-deployed frigate HMS Montrose has been shepherding British ships safely through the Gulf, supported by sister ship, HMS Kent and Portsmouth-based destroyers, HMS Duncan and Defender.
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Hide AdOn an average day, two British-flagged container ships or tankers are passing through the Strait of Hormuz and each day their journey is delayed costs their owners an estimated £230,000.
Beyond that, there are around 2,200 merchant vessels in the region daily.
The military mission to monitor shipping and guard choke points, codenamed Operation Sentinel, involves seven nations – the USA, UK, Australia, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Albania.
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Hide AdVice Admiral James Malloy, commander of the US Navy’s fifth fleet and the most senior naval officer in the region, welcomed Cdre Parkins.
‘Sitting in my office two months back, the First Sea Lord promised he would send the very best, a seasoned, combat experienced officer with significant regional tours under his belt – and he was true to his word,’ he added.
The Royal Navy will lead the IMSC for four months.
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