Friends and family of the serving personnel of HMS Richmond eagerly awaited their reunion with their loved ones this afternoon as the Type- 23 frigate returned to its home port HMNB Devonport, Plymouth.
HMS Richmond had been taking part in Operation Prosperity Guardian, which was launched internationally just before Christmas to protect maritime trade in the Red Sea area.
Merchant vessels have been attacked in the area by Houthi rebels in response to the war in Gaza. The Royal Navy said the crew had to fire Sea Ceptor missiles once during the mission after a merchant vessel named Sky II was struck by a Houthi missile on 9 March.
The Royal Navy added it was the first time such missiles had been fired in combat and were able to bring down drones after 57 missiles and drones were launched from sites in Yemen. The frigate's Wildcat helicopter also watched over teams from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines as they searched seven vessels to check if illegal cargoes were being carried.
RNRMC contributed towards and attended today’s homecoming to show support to both the Sailors and Marines on board and their family who no doubt have been anticipating their homecoming since the day they left. It was a great opportunity to meet and connect to show the available support.
