UK prepares second naval ship for potential eastern Mediterranean deployment

The United Kingdom is preparing a second naval vessel for potential deployment to the Eastern Mediterranean, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed.

The announcement follows an earlier decision to ready the Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon for deployment to the region. The MoD has now said that the Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship RFA Lyme Bay is also being brought to heightened readiness, Caliber.Az reports via Sky News.

According to the ministry, the move is part of precautionary planning to ensure the UK can respond to developments in the area if required.

An MoD spokesperson said: "As part of prudent planning, we have taken the decision to bring RFA Lyme Bay to heightened readiness as a precaution, should she be needed to assist in maritime tasks in the Eastern Mediterranean."

RFA Lyme Bay is a landing ship designed to support amphibious operations. It is equipped to operate as an aviation platform and includes onboard medical facilities. The vessel is frequently deployed for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.

The United Kingdom’s increased naval readiness comes amid heightened attention to security and maritime operations in the Eastern Mediterranean.

By Sabina Mammadli