It was a battle of wits beneath the waves and on the icy surface of the Arctic as HMS Somerset took on dangerous submarines during a daring operation near Norway. The mission was far from ordinary, amid freezing temperatures and hostile waters, the Royal Navy’s Somerset and its crew joined forces with Norwegian and Dutch allies in a show of strength and tactical expertise during the thrilling Exercise Arctic Dolphin.
But this wasn’t just another routine drill. The cold winds bit at the crew as they engaged in an intense test of skills, learning how to track, classify, and outwit submarines, which are often hidden beneath the waves. This exercise was about much more than just survival; it was a chance to sharpen every officer’s combat edge in a real-world setting.
Commanding Officer of the Somerset, Commander Matthew Court, couldn’t have been prouder of the team’s efforts. “This exercise has once again proven the incredible co-ordination and readiness of our NATO forces. Working alongside our international partners, we’ve been able to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring security and stability at sea,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of our ship’s company for their professionalism over the last two weeks, and of course, we owe a great deal to our families and friends for their continued support.”
The two-week exercise saw Somerset joined by her mighty Merlin helicopter from the 814 Naval Air Squadron, as well as the personnel of Norwegian, Danish, and Dutch vessels. This joint operation wasn’t just about working together, it was a crucial moment for trainee captains to prove their mettle. Aspiring commanders were put to the test, with their primary goal to detect and track potential threats beneath the surface, preparing them for the challenges they may face in front-line combat.
It’s not every day you find yourself facing down submarines in the freezing waters of the North Sea. But for the crew of the Somerset, it was business as usual, proof that the Royal Navy is ready, no matter the challenge.
