HMS Ledbury (M30)

HMS Ledbury is the oldest of the eight Hunt Class Mine Counter Measures Vessels (MCMV). She ensures safe passage for larger ships all over the world.

Role

HMS Ledbury is the first of the Hunt Class Mine Counter Measures Vessels (MCMV). The Hunt Class live up to their name by using high definition sonar, searching the world‘s seabeds for mines and lost explosives.

These ships play a vital role in maintaining the freedom of navigation on the high seas and supporting the UK’s international trade.

Capability

As a minehunter, HMS Ledbury safety detects and destroys dangers under the water. In order to reach their goals the crew aboard the ship utilise specialist skills and equipment including:

Clearance Divers who carry out Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), underwater Mine Exploitation, Reconnaissance and Recovery.
The Seafox Mine Disposal System to dispose of underwater ordnance and sea mines.
Advanced sonar

Hunt Class

Crew

Her highly-skilled crew of 47 personnel work together to clear the oceans of hidden dangers, searching for and safely removing mines – modern and historic – so larger ships can enjoy safe passage.

Unit history

1940

A delayed launch

The first HMS Ledbury was ordered two days after World War Two began. Her construction was delayed by bomb damage, and she eventually launched in 1941.

1942

Escorting

Initially, she was engaged in escorting major warships and fleet auxiliaries between Scapa Flow and Iceland.

1943

Invading Salerno

In June 1943, she proceeded to the Mediterranean, and was involved in the Salerno invasion.

1946

Reserve and retirement

She was reduced to reserve in March 1946, before being retired and recycled in 1958.

1981

The Second HMS Ledbury

The current ship was commissioned in June 1981 by Sponsor Lady Elizabeth Berthan.

Follow HMS Ledbury on X

@HMSLedbury

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