Royal Navy deploys seven Archer-class patrol boats to Scotland

The British Royal Navy’s seven Archer Class P2000 patrol boats are set to deploy around Scotland’s coastline this summer.

Supporting University Royal Naval Units (URNU), the seven ships comprise HMS Biter, HMS Charger, HMS Express, HMS Trumpeter, HMS Archer, HMS Explorer, and HMS Example.

The deployment will provide the crew with an opportunity for Operational Training, including improving seamanship and navigation skills.

The vessels, which measure more than 20m long, are some of the smallest units in the navy fleet. This allows the ships to sail in smaller Scottish harbours.

Scotland and Northern Ireland naval regional commander captain Chris Smith said: “It is great to be able to bring the Royal Navy near to some of our smaller communities which, because of harbour size, don’t usually get a visit from our ships.

“The P2000s may be small, but they pack a punch, and regularly exercise around the UK and Europe, as well as supporting the fleet.

“Usually we would be hosting visits from local groups and organisations while alongside but, with the current situation, this is unfortunately not possible.”

Four ships, including Trumpeter, Archer, Explorer and Example, will commence their sail to the East Coast of Scotland.

The remaining vessels, including Biter, Charger and Express, will sail to the West Coast route.

Some of the harbour stops of the vessels are Leith, Peterhead, Wick, Westray, Stromness, Inverness, Fraserburgh, Port Ellen, Oban, Fort William, Kyle of Lochalsh, Ullapoool, Stornoway, Loch Boisdale and Tobermory.

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