Navy support ship RFA Wave Knight is Caribbean-bound for the next six months, ready to help Britons hit by natural disaster.
The 32,000-tonne tanker left Hunterston, near Largs on Scotland’s west coast, this morning to begin the 4,500-mile journey across the Atlantic.
Once in the Caribbean she’ll join forces with HMS Medway, the Royal Navy patrol ship stationed in the region
Together, the two vessels form the spearhead of the UK’s response to Nature’s fury – hurricane season begins on June 1st, while the people of St Vincent continue to be affected by the eruption of volcano La Soufrière.
Last year proved to be one of the quieter hurricane seasons, but Wave Knight has undergone thorough training and loaded all the necessary supplies to respond if required.
For although officially a tanker, the ship can also carry up to 2,000 disaster relief packages, 150 tonnes of fresh food and provide up to 380,000 litres of fresh water.
“Our holds are full of humanitarian aid and disaster relief stores and our decks packed with workboats ready to respond to the upcoming hurricane season,” said her Commanding Officer Captain Simon Herbert RFA.
“My ship’s company – Royal Fleet Auxiliary, Royal Navy and Royal Marines – has been comprehensively prepared and trained to offer not only humanitarian and disaster relief support, but also Maritime Security and to support the international fight against illegal drug running.
“It is a privilege and a honour to command RFA Wave Knight as she deploys to provide support, assistance and reassurance to Britain’s overseas territories in the Caribbean region. All onboard will miss their family and friends but they are also looking forward to the challenges ahead.”
Wave Knight picks up where aviation support ship RFA Argus left off at the end of the year, while Medway has remained in the region throughout the winter.
The ship is also taking a Wildcat helicopter from 213 Flight/815 Naval Air Squadron, which is crucial for reaching remote locations, surveying damage and moving personnel and supplies around.
