UK: Two Royal Navy's minehunters conduct training with Qatar Navy.

According to information published by the UK MoD on September 7, 2023, in a recent joint naval exercise, the Royal Navy's minehunters, Hunt class HMS Chiddingfold and Sandown class HMS Bangor, teamed up with the Qatari Emiri Naval Force to enhance their collaborative skills and share expertise.
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British Hunt class mine countermeasures vessel HMS Chiddingfold. (Picture source: UK MoD)

Conducted in Qatar's territorial waters, this exercise aimed to foster mutual understanding and strengthen maritime ties between the two nations.

The training was divided into two segments. Initially, crew members from both navies visited each other's ships, offering insights into their operational capabilities and methodologies. A highlight of this phase was the introduction to the Qatari Emiri Naval Force's latest addition, the Offshore Patrol Vessel QENS Sheraouh-Q62.

Following this, HMS Chiddingfold and HMS Bangor, in conjunction with QENS Sheraouh, embarked on a series of sea drills, which also involved the Qatari Coastguard. These drills emphasized close-quarter sailing to challenge the proficiency of the ships' bridge teams and enhance force protection measures.

With the joint training now concluded, the Royal Navy minehunters have returned to their primary mission, supporting Operation Kipion in the Gulf, which emphasizes ensuring maritime freedom and the uninterrupted flow of commerce.

HMS Chiddingfold and HMS Bangor 

The Hunt-class, designed as a mine countermeasures vessel, is slightly larger with a displacement of 750 tons, compared to the Sandown-class minehunter's 600 tons.

This size difference is further evident in their lengths, with the Hunt-class stretching to 60 meters and the Sandown-class being a tad shorter at 52.5 meters. However, the Sandown-class boasts a slightly broader beam.

In terms of propulsion, the Hunt-class relies on a 2,000 shp 2-shaft CAT C32 diesel system, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 17 knots. The Sandown-class, on the other hand, employs a combination of Paxman Valenta diesels and a diesel-electric drive, propelling it to speeds of 13 knots.

When it comes to crew, the Hunt-class accommodates 45 personnel, including 6 officers and 39 ratings. The Sandown-class, while designed for a crew of 34, offers accommodation for up to 40, providing flexibility during extended missions.

Both vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, including the Radar Type 1007 I-Band/SharpEye navigation radar. However, they employ different sonar systems, with the Hunt-class using the Sonar Type 2193 and the Sandown-class utilizing the Sonar Type 2093.

A feature of the Hunt-class is its electronic warfare capabilities, including the SeaFox mine disposal system and diver-placed explosive charges, enhancing its mine countermeasure operations.