A Royal Navy vessel docked at South Harbour is the first to visit the Aberdeen sea port.
HMS Somerset, a Type 23 frigate of the Royal Navy, docked at the newly opened South Harbour on Thursday morning, marking a new chapter in the port’s maritime history.
The 436ft vessel arrived in Aberdeen after completing a critical operation in the North Sea, where it shadowed a Russian task group transporting cargo back from Syria through the English Channel.
Commander Joel Roberts, commanding officer of HMS Somerset, has previously highlighted the ship’s experience in escorting Russian vessels, stating: “Somerset is well versed in the escort of Russian ships, having conducted these operations on a number of occasions. Great professionalism has been shown by the ship’s company to remain vigilant whilst operating in UK waters and integrating with our Nato allies to monitor Russian activity around Europe.”
Just five months ago, the port welcomed its first-ever warship, the Louise-Marie, from the Belgian Navy. This visit enhances Aberdeen’s profile as a key player in national defence and maritime security, paving the way for future naval visits and operations.
HMS Somerset’s visit to Aberdeen is expected to be brief, with the crew preparing to depart later in the day.
