Last night saw the arrival of HMS Kent which is one of the Type 23 frigates within the Royal Navy. The ship was built by BAE Systems on the Clyde and was launched in 1998 by Princess Alexandra of Kent.

HMS Kent is the twelfth ship that has had this name in the Royal Navy and has travelled the world since her launch in a number of deployments. The ship has been involved in a number of anti-priracy and anti-drug missions in recent years including actions against smugglers, pirates and terrorists. The ship has a length of 133 m (436 ft 4 in), beam of 16.1 m (52 ft 10 in) and can carry a crew of up to 205.

Whilst she is in dock, the crew will carry out a Capability Demonstration for representatives of London’s emergency services. The ship will be berthed in West India Dock over the weekend before making her way to Scotland take part in the Battle of Jutland centenary commemorations, in which she will play a central role.

This year marks 100 years since the Battle of Jutland which is considered one the greatest sea battles of the 20th Century. HMS Kent will arrive at Rosyth, a major port and key ship building area of the First World War, where she will take part in events organised by the Scottish Government at South Queensferry. She will then sail for Scapa Flow where she will provide a gun salute.

Another Royal Navy ship will arrive next weekend with the arrival of the HMS Duncan into West India Dock.