Type 23 frigate HMS Sutherland has sailed from Devonport to relieve sister ship HMS Richmond on Armilla patrol in the Gulf.

During her deployment east of Suez Sutherland will work with ships of other Coalition navies to undertake general surveillance of shipping in the area, to maintain the UK maritime presence in the region, and to contribute to stability in the Middle East as a whole.

She will also take part in exercises, and make visits to a number of Gulf states to foster good relations.

Since a docking period last year, Sutherland has prepared for her six-month deployment with exercises in UK waters, including a Joint Maritime Course off Scotland in February.

Sutherland was one of eight ships taking part in the multilateral exercise, which provided an opportunity for her to carry out joint collective training in an environment threatening simulated attacks from the air, the surface and underwater – ideal preparation for an operational deployment.

Her Commanding Officer, Cdr Graeme Mackay, said: “The ship is very well prepared for this deployment and is now ready to continue the good work of the Armilla patrol ship.

“As the Middle East recovers from the recent conflict, we have a vital role to play in bringing peace and stability to the region.”

The Armilla Patrol started in 1980, at the beginning of the Iran/Iraq war, when British warships operating in the Far East were diverted to the Gulf region to ensure the safety of British entitled merchant shipping.

Although the protection of shipping was the original aim, the Armilla patrol has been maintained to maintain the British presence and to provide reassurance for allies in the area.