HMS Argyll Hunts Submarines With Allies In Philippine Sea

(Picture: MOD).

HMS Argyll has joined forces with allied navies from Japan and the United States to hunt down submarines in the Philippine Sea during military exercises.

It is the first time the these navies have combined forces in the region and tested their specialist anti-submarine warfare skills together.

During the two days of training, a US Navy submarine played the part of the enemy.

Japan’s helicopter destroyer JS Izumo worked with the Plymouth-based frigate to hunt down the US Navy submarine.

"Sharing the Royal Navy’s expertise and experience with our partners and allies right across the world emphasizes the UK’s commitment to promoting international security and stability," Commander Toby Shaughnessy, Commanding Officer of HMS Argyll, said.

The Type 23's Wildcat helicopter was loaded with a Test Variant Torpedo (TVT) before launching off Argyll's deck to step up the search for the US submarine.

The Japanese also sent up their anti-submarine Seahawk helicopters alongside a Maritime Patrol Aircraft as part of the operation exercises.

"Given the increase in maritime traffic worldwide and current events, the importance of increased collaboration and cooperation between our three highly capable and like-minded services can't be overstated," said Captain Katsuyoshi Motoyama, Commander of Izumo.

"We all share a common vision of enhancing the operational effectiveness of our maritime forces." 

HMS Argyll is currently on a nine-month deployment and after the exercise, the ship and her company docked at US Naval Base in Yokosuka, Japan.

This gave the ship’s company the chance to explore the capital Tokyo and head into the surrounding mountains above Yokosuka to take part in winter sports.

HMS Argyll will return to the UK in the spring.