SAILORS from RNAS Culdrose's drone flight have been sent to West Africa to help deliver training in the fight against maritime crime including piracy and armed robbery.

Puma drone flight sailors from Culdrose 700X naval air squadron have been deployed on HMS Trent to help provide stability across the Gulf of Guinea through training, and to protect around £6 billion of UK trade that passes through the region.

The ship – tasked with providing a regular presence in the Mediterranean and Africa – will deliver training to navies in other parts of the world and share knowledge, whilst conducting patrols to increase security.

Falmouth Packet: Royal Navy sailor launches the drone from the side of the ship Royal Navy sailor launches the drone from the side of the ship (Image: Royal Navy)

The deployment contributes to a wider international effort by the Friends of the Gulf of Guinea (FOGG).

This supports nations in the Gulf of Guinea in their security efforts, by bringing stability to a region that has seen international shipping disrupted, seafarers’ lives put in danger, and damage caused to local economies.

HMS Trent has specialist Royal Marines from 42 Commando onboard, while a Puma drone can be launched from the ship to provide reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, monitoring an area larger than the size of Greater Manchester. 

Lieutenant Christopher Windsor, Puma Flight Commander from 700X Naval Air Squadron, said: “I am delighted to support HMS Trent’s upcoming deployment to West Africa with Puma.

Falmouth Packet: The view from the Puma drone of HMS Trent alongside her Royal Marines boarding team The view from the Puma drone of HMS Trent alongside her Royal Marines boarding team (Image: Royal Navy)

“The opportunity to deploy Puma as an aviation asset onboard Trent will benefit our deployment as well as shape future tasking across the patrol ship fleet. My team is looking forward to testing this capability.”

Lieutenant Commander Mike Rydiard, executive officer of HMS Trent, added: “The integration of a Royal Marines boarding team and the Puma remotely piloted air system in Trent is a first, and demonstrates our flexibility. 

“It is a testament to a lot of hard work by my team in Trent and organisations across the whole force that have supported us. 

“We are ready for maritime security operations and look forward to working with and supporting regional partners.”

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Trent’s first port visit is in The Gambia this weekend, where sailors from the Gambian Navy will receive training in firefighting, damage control, and seamanship, accessing world-class Royal Navy training.

British sailors will also help support them in the maintenance of their newly purchased offshore patrol vessel and host events on board Trent.