Britain to increase maritime patrols in Strait of Hormuz

The British government has pledged to step up defensive maritime patrols in and around the Strait of Hormuz in response to calls for increased coordination and interoperability of international maritime security.

This statement followed a pledge by the US National Security Council Spokesman, John Kirby, who asserted on 12 May that a boost to international maritime security was under consideration.

The Marquess of Lothian, a member of the Conservative Party, asked His Majesty’s Government about any actions being taken to fortify patrols around this strategically important waterway. The Marquess specifically enquired about the Government’s response to the United States’ commitment to bolstering co-ordination and interoperability in maritime security.

Responding on behalf of the Government, Baroness Goldie, Lord in Waiting and The Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence, outlined the actions being taken to protect commercial shipping in the region.

She noted, “The UK currently commands the International Maritime Security Construct, which provides an immediate response to the threat in the Persian Gulf by providing reassurance to commercial shipping and maintaining the security of the maritime commons.”

Baroness Goldie highlighted the deployment of HMS LANCASTER, a Type 23 Frigate, which regularly patrols the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz.

Moreover, she confirmed that the UK is working in partnership with the US to increase defensive maritime patrols in the Strait of Hormuz. “Alongside the US,” she said, “the UK is currently increasing defensive maritime patrols in the Strait of Hormuz to provide additional security for maritime commerce in the region.”

Read more: UK Defence Journal