HMS Plymouth returns home after 'defensive ring of steel on the western Pacific Rim'
Family today gathered to welcome loved-ones home
Hundreds of family and friends have welcomed HMS Richmond home to Plymouth today as the warship completed an epic eight-month mission.
Since April the frigate and her 200-strong ship’s company – sailors, aviators and Royal Marines Commandos – have played an integral role in the Royal Navy’s premier deployment of 2025, 'Operation Highmast'.
Richmond was part of the defensive ring of steel protecting the UK’s flagship, HMS Prince of Wales, as she led her Carrier Strike Group to the western Pacific Rim. The frigate was assigned to the force to provide protection against the prying eyes of hostile submarines and surface vessels.
But she also had the opportunity to strike out on her own at times, breaking away from the main task group to visit South Korea, Vietnam, Manila in the Philippines and Mumbai in India, in addition to taking part in major exercises in the Mediterranean, off northern Australia and Japan.
Commanding Officer Commander Rich Kemp said all the men and women in his charge could reflect 'with real pride on the professionalism, resilience and teamwork shown throughout this demanding deployment'.
He added: “It has been a privilege to serve alongside our partners in the strike group, and to represent the Royal Navy on a global stage.”
His second-in-command, Executive Officer Lieutenant Commander James Callender, said he “could not be prouder” of his shipmates for all they had achieved.
“Whether it be supporting UN Security Council resolutions in the Yellow Sea or hosting dignitaries and VIPs for high level engagement, Richmond has continued to deliver in spades.
“We are now looking forward to the joy of homecoming and being reunited with the family and friends whose support has helped make this deployment possible.”
Richmond’s return to Plymouth is one of several by ships and squadrons as the deployment ends.