Minehunter returns home after three-year Gulf mission

The Royal Navy vessel was welcomed back to HM Naval Base Clyde on Friday by a small flotilla of boats.

Minehunter returns home after three-year Gulf mission

A Royal Navy minehunter has returned home after completing a three-year mission in the Gulf.

HMS Blyth was welcomed back to HM Naval Base Clyde on Friday by a small flotilla of boats, including Royal Marine craft from 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group and a Clyde-based tug.

The Sandown-class minehunter covered 6300 nautical miles during its mission, spending 111 days at sea working alongside fellow Royal Navy ships and with US Navy allies.

Welcome home: Crew 2 has been deployed to the vessel since January. <strong>ROYAL NAVY</strong>” /><span class=

Coronavirus restrictions, which came into effect in March, meant it was a particularly challenging time for the crew. 

Crew 2 – from the First Mine Counter Measures Squadron (MCM1) – have been deployed to the vessel since January and were given the honour of sailing back home.

Ship-shape: The minehunter has completed its three-year mission. <strong>ROYAL NAVY</strong>” /><span class=

Lieutenant commander Pete Ellison, the commanding officer of HMS Blyth, praised their efforts.

He said: “Crew 2 have performed magnificently through a difficult period and we now look forward to a well-deserved period of rest and relaxation with our families.

“My thanks must go to my crew for their professionalism and commitment, but also to our families at home; they have faced an extended and very challenging period with their loved-ones away at sea and I am extremely grateful for their support.”