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HMS Bangor completes training exercise with Saudi Navy

HMS Bangor completes training exercise with Saudi Navy
17 February 2016
HMS Bangor has just completed two days of sea training with HMS Al Jawf as part of a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s King Abdul Aziz Naval Base (KANB).

During the visit, Bangor trained alongside the ship’s company of Sandown Class Mine Hunter, HMS Al Jawf, and visited Ministry of Defence Armed Forces Projects (MODSAP) personnel, who monitor the supply service that exists between the UK and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

During the exercise period, the Sandown MCMVs trained side by side, conducting minefield lead-throughs, Officer of the Watch Manoeuvres and co-ordinated mine hunting serials. 

The ships also exchanged crew members during the exercise in order to improve understanding and cooperation between the two navies.

Able Seaman Fraser Bowman, of HMS Bangor, said: “It was one of the best experiences that I have had in my naval career. 

"To be able to spend a day onboard with our Saudi friends was a real honour. I knew some of them as we trained together at HMS Collingwood, so it was great to see them again in HMS Al Jawf.”

The ship’s company also visited a traditional Bedouin camp in the desert during the exercise, where they were able to meet residents and learn about the traditions of their hosts. 

Lieutenant Commander Tom Weaver, Commanding Officer of HMS Bangor, said: “Our Saudi hosts made us feel incredibly welcome.  We have a lot more in common than just the Sandown ships we serve in and the members of my crew who spent time on board HMS Al Jawf enjoyed it immensely.”

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