Honorary Commodore-in-Chief of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the Earl of Wessex, visited RFA Tidesurge during the ship’s rare stopover in Portsmouth.
Prince Edward, who was accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson, met head of the RFA, Commodore David Eagles and toured the tanker, speaking to officers and crew.
Commanding Officer Captain Simon Booth said: “My ship’s company are very proud of their ship and what she delivers to UK Defence and were absolutely delighted to be able to show her off to our Commodore in Chief.
“His Royal Highness took a keen interest in the capabilities of the ship and the diverse personnel I have the privilege to command.”
Cdre Eagles added: “We are grateful for His Royal Highness’s support and awareness of all that the RFA Flotilla achieves in delivering to the Royal Navy and wider UK Defence.”
Tidesurge is the third of the Tide-class tankers designed to support the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.
At 39,000-tonnes, the ship is able to operate Chinook, Merlin and Wildcat helicopters and since entering service in 2019, Tidesurge has provided support to Royal Navy and allied warships.
She is currently regenerating following a maintenance period and visited Portsmouth to embark stores, rotate crew and prepare for the ship’s upcoming Operational Sea Safety Training.
