From Birkenhead to Bahrain

It has been one year since the Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship Fort Victoria left Birkenhead for the Gulf in support of international coalition forces operating in the region.

As an Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment (AOR) ship, offering the capability of both stores and fleet tanker, her presence in the region is part of the UK's continued commitment to enduring peace and stability.

Since arriving Fort Vic has carried out 43 Replenishment At Seas meeting the requirements of vessels from nine Allied nations and seeing some 22,923 cubic metres of diesel pumped out of the 31,000-tonne auxiliary’s tanks.

Helicopters – including the Airbourne Surveillance Sea Kings of 849 Naval Air Squadron, who have been using Fort Vic as their base for reconnaissance missions in the region – have taken on board 1,740 cubic metres of aviation fuel, and just for good measure 600 pallets of dry stores were shifted either by line transfer or helicopter.

Captain Kevin Rimell RFA, Commanding Officer of Fort Victoria, said: “Fort Victoria exemplifies the finest traditions of the RFA. At the beginning of 2015 my ship’s company worked tirelessly to regenerate this platform and deploy on time. 

"Once in theatre our success has been measured in the days on task, delivering stores and fuel to both UK and coalition assets, whilst operating as a maritime platform for 849 Squadron Sea Kings. 

“As 2015 ended it was with pride that I looked back and realised what a valuable asset she is in this part of the world and we have already started a busy 2016.”

Fort Victoria will continue her busy operational programme supporting coalition partners in 2016.