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The UK has a long-standing maritime presence in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean. Operation Kipion is our commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region, as well as ensuring the safe flow of oil and trade.
Britain's economic activity depends on the oceans
Oil imported into the UK every year
Nations working in cooperation
Royal Navy mine hunting vessels permanently stationed in the region
The Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary maintain a conspicuous presence in the Gulf, consisting of helicopters, dock landing ships, and a permanent mine countermeasures squadron.
There is typically at least one escort, (Type 23 Frigate HMS Lancaster) supported by a tanker of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA Cardigan Bay), employed by UK Maritime Component Command (UKMCC) on Maritime Security patrol. In addition to this, there is a three-strong squadron of minehunters (HMS Middleton, HMS Bangor, and HMS Chiddingfold) commanded by UKMCMFOR from RFA Cardigan Bay and supported by Fleet Support Unit based in the Nava Support Facility.
The United Kingdom Component Command, located in Bahrain, is the command element of Operation Kipion. The UKMCC exercises command and control of the various Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships and sailors in the region as well as personnel from the Royal Marines, Royal Airforce, and British Army.
Vision: By working alongside valued regional and international partners we will support the maintenance of the International Rules Based Order. We will reassure those who live and work in the maritime domain by actively deterring malign and illegal activity and by upholding freedom of navigation on the high seas. We will develop our regional partners’ capabilities to effectively conduct operations as well as strengthen our effort to promote regional maritime security and stability.
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