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Royal Navy patrol ship returns to Caribbean hunting ground for humanitarian mission
24 October 2025
A Royal Navy patrol ship has returned to the Caribbean happy hunting ground where she seized £750m of illegal drugs in 2024 for a humanitarian mission.
HMS Trent saw notable historic success during their nine-month deployment last year, including an operation that saw the Royal Navy intercept its first ‘narco-sub’.
Now, the warship is back, with sister vessel HMS Medway handing over regional duties, where Trent will initially carry out patrols and provide support to British Overseas Territories during hurricane season, which rages from June to November.
Commanding Officer, Commander Gavin Lowe, said: “It is great to be back. Every member of Trent's Ship's Company is excited to return to the Caribbean. I am looking forward to continuing the Royal Navy’s excellent record in the region.
“I would also like to thank Medway for the great work she has done, standing on guard during the hurricane season this year, and for providing us with a well-trained team of augmentees.
“Trent is ready to work with our allies, partners, and the overseas territories throughout the rest of the hurricane season.
“We are prepared to provide humanitarian assistance, work with the United States Coast Guard to counter the illegal drug trade, and to show the best of Britain during our engagement visits in the region.”
Deploying with Trent is the Crisis Response Troop of 24 Commando Royal Engineers, who are experts in helping communities get back on their feet after being hit by storm damage – including rebuilding roads, building and repairing crucial infrastructure, such as restoring electricity or water supplies.
Captain Miles Adesile, Royal Engineers, in charge of the troop, said: “On behalf of my troop, I would like to thank HMS Medway for their partnership during the hurricane season. I am eager to continue this strong relationship with HMS Trent as we maintain readiness to provide humanitarian assistance.”
The deployment – known as Atlantic Patrol Tasking (North) – is an annual commitment by the UK to provide help to islanders and is backed by a staff who coordinate operations in the event of a storm hitting communities.
Lieutenant Phillip Corner, Royal Naval Reserve, who is involved in operational planning, added: “After five months in theatre, my team of augmentees for this year’s hurricane season is fully ready.
“The team comprises staff officers, an amphibious operations specialist, media and information operations officer, meteorological analyst, and photographer.
“Together with the Crisis Response Troop, we look forward to continuing our work as we visit more islands to strengthen partnerships, support the overseas territories, and provide humanitarian assistance."