UK Royal Navy and Moroccan Navy Team Up for Diving Demo
The UK Royal Navy, in collaboration with the Royal Moroccan Navy, successfully conducted a joint tactical diving demonstration in the British Gibraltar Territorial Waters. This significant event aimed to enhance the interoperability of both forces in executing underwater missions, utilizing British vessels stationed in the strategically vital Strait of Gibraltar. A highlight of the demonstration was the utilization of the Cutlass-class fast patrol craft, specifically designed for operations in this region.
Throughout the exercises, members from the UK Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron’s Clearance Diving Element (CDE) and their Moroccan counterparts simulated rescue operations for injured divers under various environmental conditions. The drills took place near the coastline adjacent to Gibraltar Airport, where the HMS Cutlass served as an operational platform. Participants practiced individual emergency procedures while also collaborating to complete each task effectively.
Innovative Dive Operations
Chief Petty Officer James Roberts of the UK Royal Navy Gibraltar CDE expressed enthusiasm about the successful integration of the squadron and clearance divers. He noted, “It was great to see the squadron and the clearance divers come together to prove the concept of utilizing the launch as a dive platform.” This innovative approach marked a first for the unit, demonstrating the ability to deploy and recover divers safely from the launch during operations.
The successful demonstration has expanded the operational capabilities of the forces involved, with Chief Petty Officer Roberts adding, “This certainly now offers our Command more options when undertaking future tasking.” The collaboration with the Royal Moroccan Navy marked a significant milestone as divers from Gibraltar joined forces with HMS Dagger, enhancing their joint operational readiness.
Previous Joint Exercises
In November, a parallel diving mission rehearsal took place at Tangier Bay in the southwestern part of the Strait, which laid the groundwork for the latest demonstration. During this session, the CDE and Moroccan forces utilized HMS Cutlass’s sister ship, HMS Dagger, to practice subsea specialist deployments and conduct ammunition searches. The exercises involved the use of the CDE’s Crabb support boat to facilitate the transportation of detached divers.
Lt. Cmdr. Jonathan Davies, Commander of HMS Dagger, highlighted the importance of the recent demonstration. He stated, “As a very-high-readiness squadron, we have now added another skill set to our portfolio.” Combining the capabilities of these established units has provided UK Strategic Command with enhanced operational capacity, which is expected to positively impact ongoing maritime security operations.
Enhancing Maritime Security
The joint tactical diving demonstration reflects a broader commitment to enhancing maritime security in the region. By conducting such collaborative exercises, the UK and Moroccan navies are better prepared to address potential underwater threats and emergencies. The successful integration of their diving operations represents a significant step forward in fostering international military cooperation.
With the capabilities demonstrated during these exercises, both navies are poised to tackle future maritime challenges more effectively. The strategic location of Gibraltar, coupled with the skills developed through these joint operations, underscores the importance of continued collaboration between the UK and Morocco in safeguarding their maritime interests.
