HMS Medway visits Turks and Caicos during Caribbean patrols

Currently assigned to the North Atlantic and Caribbean region, HMS Medway plays a critical role in disaster response during the Atlantic hurricane season, providing an enduring presence in the region.

The visit enabled a disaster response exercise and engagement between the ship’s crisis response troop and the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment.

The vessel’s visit to Turks and Caicos also offered residents an opportunity to learn more about HMS Medway’s work, highlighting the UK’s ongoing commitment to the security, stability, and prosperity of its Overseas Territories.

The visit included members of the local Cadet Corps and Cub Scouts getting a tour of the ship, while the ship’s company helped with community reconstruction work at Eliza Simons Primary and Faith Preparatory Schools. 

Visitors learned about the patrol ship’s vital capabilities and inventory of humanitarian equipment, including disaster relief supplies, ration packs, medical gear, and materials for clearing storm debris.

In addition to disaster preparedness, HMS Medway actively supports counter-narcotics efforts across the region, regularly conducting joint operations with US authorities to disrupt the illegal drugs trade (her predecessor in the region, HMS Trent, bagged more than £750m illicit substances in just seven months).

The Turks and Caicos are the third largest of the UK’s Overseas Territories – but with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants are still a quarter of the size of Portsmouth, spread across 75 islands in the chain. 

The visit included stops in capital island Grand Turk’s cruise port and Providenciales, an island in the northwest Caicos Islands.

Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam, the Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick and Deputy Governor Anya Williams were welcomed aboard HMS Medway by Commanding Officer, Commander James Tibbitts, who led an insightful tour, showcasing the warship’s advanced capabilities and state-of-the-art surveillance equipment that support its patrol and prevention operations.

Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, said: “HMS Medway’s presence in the Turks and Caicos Islands exemplifies the UK’s unwavering commitment to its Overseas Territories and regional allies. From providing rapid disaster response to supporting security operations, HMS Medway represents the UK’s readiness to assist and support Caribbean communities.

 “HMS Medway’s presence in Turks and Caicos reflects Defence’s commitment to maintaining a persistent presence in the region, reinforcing partnerships with Caribbean allies like the United States, Netherlands, Canada, and France.

“The ship’s previous work in the Caribbean includes assisting the British Overseas Territories, including through providing security support during the COVID-19 pandemic, and conducting counter-narcotics operations in partnership with US law enforcement.”

Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard, added: “I would like to thank the dedicated men and women serving aboard HMS Medway for their hard work in supporting the UK’s commitment to regional security and for supporting our Overseas Territories in the Caribbean.

“From tackling narcotics trafficking, to supporting relief efforts during hurricane season, the crew of HMS Medway are providing a valuable and reassuring presence for British citizens in the Overseas Territories.”