'Fantastic' HMS Brocklesby back at sea after Royal Navy ship goes through refit - what has she been doing?

A Royal Navy minehunter is back at sea after a lengthy spell on the side-lines.

Portsmouth-based minehunter HMS Brocklesby is operational once again after going through recent works. Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse stepped aboard ship and spoke to the ship’s company about their upcoming duties.

In a social media statement, he said: “Fantastic to see HMS Brocklesby back in the fleet and returning to operational tasking after refit and sea training. A fantastic team effort and now ready to deliver for homeland security and Nato.”

The Hunt-class warship has been undergoing sea trials since March. She was then on display at the Dartmouth Regatta 2026 with the public invited on board. She was joined alongside HMS Blazer and Express.

HMS Brocklesby uses sonar technology, and a combination of highly trained Mine Clearance Divers and the SEAFOX unmanned underwater vehicle, to seek out and destroy mines. Her glass-reinforced plastic hull helps protect her from threats.

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When asked about the ship’s latest duties, a Royal Navy minehunter said: “HMS Brocklesby completed her capability upgrades earlier this year and initial training in June. Since then she has taken part in national tasking including: supporting HMS Cattistock with training, signature ranging and filling the responsibility of guardship for the Dartmouth Regatta.”

The ship’s Commanding Officer added: “It is a great honour and a privilege for HMS Brocklesby to serve as the Royal Navy Guardship for the Dartmouth Regatta 2026. Dartmouth has a proud and enduring connection with the Royal Navy, and we are delighted to be returning this year to play our part in this highly anticipated event for HMS Brocklesby’s first time since 2013.

“I’m extremely proud to continue this enduring bond between the people of Dartmouth and the Royal Navy.”