British Sailors Await Mine-Clearing Task near Gibraltar
RFA Lyme Bay is currently anchored off Gibraltar, with hundreds of British sailors onboard, waiting for orders for a still-unclear mine-clearing operation in the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump has criticized allies for not taking more initiative to support the US efforts regarding Iran. The situation in the Strait has severely impacted international shipping and driven energy prices upward. Back in March, Trump urged NATO members to “secure their own oil” and manage the straits independently.
In Gibraltar, situated at the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula, the Royal Navy is gearing up for action, though any plans depend on reaching a peace agreement. Trump stated recently that after discussions with Israel and other regional partners, a deal with Iran was “mostly negotiated” but still required final touches.
British Armed Forces Minister Al Kearns visited RFA Lyme Bay along with a few journalists, discussing preparations for an international mission led by the UK and France to ensure safety in the Strait. Kearns noted the amphibious landing ship was being outfitted with mine-hunting drones, complete with necessary ammunition and sonar systems.
This vessel, carrying several hundred crew members, is expected to depart Gibraltar soon and will provide air support alongside the British destroyer Dragon and other allied ships before navigating through the Suez Canal towards the Persian Gulf.
Kearns posed a rhetorical question about the role of the UK in supporting Trump’s objectives, highlighting the challenges ahead. Following the US and Israel’s military actions on February 28, Iran responded by effectively closing the strait, critical for oil, gas, and fertilizer transport, leading to widespread economic disruptions. Trump has express frustrations towards Britain, even labeling the Royal Navy as a “toy” and referring to Prime Minister Keir Starmer as lacking the stature of Winston Churchill.
Since the onset of the conflict, an estimated 6,000 vessels have been hindered from passing through the strait, according to Kearns.
The commander suggested that Iran likely possesses a diverse array of mines throughout the strait. Gemma Britton, who heads the Royal Navy’s Mine and Threat Exploitation Group, explained that these mines can be deployed in various ways—some are even designed to activate based on environmental triggers like sound or movement.
An autonomous system recently introduced is capable of scanning the ocean floor with sonar much quicker than manned vessels can, generating images to help identify underwater obstacles. Britton expressed that this technology would assist in locating mines using sophisticated acoustic systems alongside visual capabilities.
Some systems on RFA Lyme Bay can be utilized on smaller ships that can be autonomously launched, remaining as motherships outside potential minefields. This could significantly reduce the number of personnel required for the operation.
Traditionally, when a landmine is located, divers would attach explosives and retreat before detonation. However, RFA Lyme Bay is experimenting with a remotely operated vehicle that can descend to the mine site and place the charge directly.
The current priority is to clear safe passageways for roughly 700 vessels to navigate the strait. After that, the opposite lanes will be addressed, but Kearns warned that clearing the entire strait could be a lengthy process, potentially spanning months or even years.
It remains uncertain if any mines are present in the Channel or if British forces and their allies will be tasked with removal. Kearns mentioned some mines might have detonated or drifted away, but such uncertainties leave insurance companies wary. They are looking for complete assurance before allowing ships to operate in the Channel again.
International actions to secure the strait will only commence after hostilities cease.
Trump recently mentioned on social media that the last details of the agreement were being finalized, without offering specifics on timing.
This isn’t the first time recent talks have suggested a deal is imminent. Kearns voiced uncertainty about when an agreeable solution would be reached among the US, Iran, and Israel.
In the meantime, RFA Lyme Bay and its crew are on standby and fully prepared for any potential operations ahead.
